Newcastle United are reported to be within £5m of Lille’s valuation of Matias Fernandez-Pardo as they step up their pursuit of the Belgium international before the transfer window closes.
The Magpies have seen previous approaches rejected, but negotiations have advanced after the club indicated it could pay as much as £55m for the 21-year-old forward. Lille are understood to be seeking around £60m for a player who can operate as a centre-forward or on either flank.
Newcastle close in on Matias Fernandez-Pardo deal
TeamTalk reports that Newcastle’s interest has developed into a serious attempt to secure Fernandez-Pardo, with the player making clear to Lille that he wants to move to St James’ Park and work under head coach Matthias Jaissle.
The French club had previously maintained a firm stance on their asking price, particularly after rejecting offers from other interested sides. However, Lille are now said to be accepting that the forward is likely to leave, with Newcastle’s latest proposal potentially sufficient to bring an agreement within reach.
Fernandez-Pardo enjoyed a productive 2025-26 campaign, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in 41 appearances in all competitions, according to TeamTalk. His versatility is considered a significant attraction for Newcastle as Jaissle looks to reshape an attack that has undergone considerable change this summer.
The Belgian made his senior international debut in June, coming off the bench in a 2-0 friendly victory over Croatia. Lille have also highlighted his development through their academy before his spell with Gent and subsequent return to the French club.
Newcastle’s pursuit comes after a major summer overhaul, which included Eddie Howe’s departure and the arrival of Jaissle. The German coach has made an encouraging start, with his side recording their first Premier League victory of the season away to Tottenham on August 29.
That 2-0 win has added momentum to the new manager’s project, but Newcastle remain keen to strengthen their attacking options before the window shuts on Tuesday. Fernandez-Pardo’s potential arrival would give Jaissle another flexible forward capable of contributing both centrally and from wide areas.
No agreement has yet been confirmed, but the gap between Newcastle’s reported offer and Lille’s valuation has narrowed to approximately £5m, leaving the deal dependent on further discussions during the final hours of the window.
