Transfer Interest in Fernandez-Pardo
Matias Fernandez-Pardo has been linked with a move away from Lille this summer, with Arsenal and Newcastle United both reportedly interested in the 21-year-old forward. The Belgian had 15 goal contributions last season and can operate both as a number nine and as a winger.
According to a report from Foot Mercato, Arsenal are interested in signing the player, and Lille would sanction his departure for a fee of €70 million. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal is willing to spend that kind of money on the young attacker. Even though he's a tremendous talent, he is largely unproven at the highest level, and the asking price is quite high. The French outfit will have to be more reasonable in their demands for the move to go through.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United have made a formal offer to sign Fernandez-Pardo ahead of Atletico Madrid, according to L'Equipe. The offer is worth €45m (£34.8m) including bonuses. La Liga giants Atletico Madrid are also showing a strong interest in the Belgium international, who is reportedly desperate to leave Lille this summer, but it's understood that Newcastle have the financial capacity to outbid Madrid should a bidding war develop.
Lille's Stance and the Player's Desire
Lille president Olivier Letang is reportedly adamant that he won't sell Fernandez-Pardo, and doesn't want to set the precedent that a player kicking up a fuss will get what he wants. However, a big offer could change his mind, with the player pushing to leave before next week's deadline. Fernandez-Pardo wants to leave Lille, despite their participation in the Champions League this season, and Newcastle are hoping to accelerate a move by tabling a formal offer. It's currently unclear if Lille would be willing to accept their bid.
The 21-year-old is capable of playing as a central striker or as a winger, and, according to one report, featured for Belgium at the World Cup this summer, reaching the quarter-finals before being eliminated by eventual winners Spain. Fernandez-Pardo has been clocked at around 36 km/h, faster than Anthony Elanga's 36.91 km/h.
Newcastle's Summer Overhaul
Newcastle United have seen four first-team stars depart this summer, including Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, and a former captain who joined Wolves after his contract expired, according to a report from GIVEMESPORT. The club have brought in several new players, including Amar Dedic, but the specific details of other signings are not confirmed.
Arsenal's Attacking Options
Arsenal are clearly looking to bring in a striker this summer, and they have also been linked with Victor Osimhen and Julian Alvarez. Both players are likely to cost a lot more, but they also have more proven pedigree and experience. Fernandez-Pardo could help create opportunities for his teammates and score goals. Arsenal need more quality in the attacking unit, and the Belgian could be a candidate. A move to Arsenal would represent a significant step up in his career.
The player is reportedly open to a transfer this summer, and it will be interesting to see whether any club is willing to meet his asking price. Arsenal are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they could provide him with a platform to compete for major trophies. The youngster will certainly hope that the two clubs can finalise an agreement in the coming weeks.