Newcastle United has reached an agreement on a £51.4 million transfer fee for Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo, with the 21-year-old Belgian international expected to finalize his move in the coming days. Fernandez-Pardo is scheduled to arrive on Tyneside Monday evening to complete the transfer.
This signing marks Newcastle's eighth acquisition of the summer, bringing their total spending to £270 million. The club has recouped £245 million from player sales this window.
Fernandez-Pardo was identified as a primary target to replace Anthony Gordon late last season. Although he initially expressed a desire to play Champions League football, his stance has reportedly shifted, allowing Newcastle to pursue the ambitious move. The forward is versatile and can operate in any of the four attacking roles favored by new head coach Matthias Jaissle, including a No. 10 position.
The imminent arrival of Fernandez-Pardo is anticipated to pave the way for Nick Woltemade's departure. Juventus is reportedly interested in acquiring the £69 million club-record signing on loan with an option to buy. Manchester United, meanwhile, was informed that their preferred target, Joshua Zirkzee, could only be transferred with an obligation to buy clause.
In other squad news, Joe Willock could be offered a one-year contract extension if he remains with the club. Nottingham Forest has shown interest in experienced winger Jacob Murphy, but Jaissle reportedly wishes to retain him due to his influence within the young squad.