Newcastle United are considering a move for Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo as part of their summer squad-revamp plans.
“Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo has featured heavily in Newcastle’s recruitment conversations ahead of the summer,” the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope reported on May 21.
The 21-year-old is viewed as a potential replacement for Anthony Gordon amid growing expectations of his departure to Bayern Munich once the transfer window opens in mid-June.
“The exciting 21-year-old… has been
talked about as a potential replacement for Anthony Gordon, who is expected to join Bayern Munich,” Hope writes.
According to Hope’s information, Newcastle’s internal assessment of Fernandez-Pardo has been overwhelmingly positive.
“He is well known to Newcastle and, we are told, is universally liked by those on the inside,” Hope reports. “He has been watched and his data analysed, with everything pointing towards a player with an extremely high ceiling.”
Fernandez-Pardo’s performances this season have further boosted his profile, with the forward netting eight goals in 40 games for Lille. He will also be part of Belgium’s 2026 World Cup roster.
However, completing a deal could prove difficult, if only because of Newcastle’s failure to qualify for any European competition for next season.
“Fernandez-Pardo is an ambitious target… and Lille qualifying for the Champions League… does not aid Newcastle’s cause,” Hope reports. “We understand that part of the club’s sales pitch… is offering them a pathway into the Premier League and beyond, even if Newcastle is not their final destination.”
Interest from other clubs is expected and might be the highest hurdle for Newcastle to clear as the summer window approaches.
