Newcastle United Agree £55m Deal for Lille Forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo

Newcastle United have reached an agreement with Lille for the transfer of forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo, with the 21-year-old Belgian international expected to fly to Tyneside to complete a medical and sign a five-year contract, according to multiple reports.

The Magpies are set to pay an initial £51 million, with a further £4 million in add-ons, bringing the total package to around £55 million. com reports the fee as £51m plus £4m, while GIVEMESPORT, citing transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, puts the figure at approximately €60 million (£51m).

Fernandez-Pardo, who joined Lille in 2024 on a five-year deal, scored eight goals in 41 appearances for the Ligue 1 club last season. He has made 71 total appearances for Lille, contributing 23 goals and assists. The forward has played both as a centre-forward and on the wing, with his versatility highlighted by those covering the deal.

European football expert Andy Brassell, speaking to com, praised Fernandez-Pardo, calling him "kind of a unicorn" and noting his development as a centre-forward. Brassell added that the 6ft 1in forward could be a long-term replacement for Romelu Lukaku in the Belgium national team.

The transfer is expected to trigger a further move, with Newcastle's record signing Nick Woltemade poised to depart on loan. Juventus are advancing in talks to sign the German international on a season-long loan with an option to buy. According to the Daily Express, formal talks between Juventus and Newcastle have gotten underway, with the two clubs negotiating over salary coverage and a loan fee. Juventus have overtaken Napoli in the race for Woltemade, with Atletico Madrid also showing interest.

Newcastle have been busy in the summer window, making eight senior signings, and their spending could reach £300 million, though net spend remains low due to player sales. The arrival of Fernandez-Pardo is expected to be completed before the transfer deadline.