Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith
Newcastle United are preparing to make a final offer to sign Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo in a blockbuster late deal, according to Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
The Magpies opened their Premier League season with an impressive performance in a 2-2 draw with Liverpool at St James' Park, with a 95th-minute Dominick Szoboszlai penalty denying them all three points on the day.
Matthias Jaissle is keen to add more reinforcements to his squad before the end of the transfer window, and after agreeing a £50m move to sign Nico Gonzalez in midfield, the attention is now turning towards adding options to the attack.
According to Tavolieri, Newcastle are now set to table a take-it-or-leave-it offer to Lille to sign Belgium international Fernandez-Pardo.
Newcastle had an offer worth around £35m rejected recently, but the 21-year-old is desperate to leave the Ligue 1 side this summer, despite their participation in the Champions League.
So far the Lille president has refused to let him leave, despite strong interest from Atletico Madrid too, but Newcastle are now ready to return with a mega offer worth over £53m to try and convince Olivier Letang to part ways with his star forward, amid reports they value him at €60m.
The deal is expected to be submitted today (Tuesday), but Newcastle have made it clear that they will not be increasing the offer after this, and should Lille decide to reject it then they will instead move on to alternative targets.
The winger, who can also play as a number ten or a striker, is viewed as an ideal fit for what Jaissle wants in his squad, and his incredible pace would make him a perfect option alongside the likes of Harvey Barnes, Anthony Elanga, and William Osula in attack.
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Matias Fernandez-Pardo Ligue 1 Stats 25/26
Appearances
Minutes
Goals
Assists
Shots (per 90)
Key Passes (per 90)
Statistics courtesy of WhoScored
'Explosive' Forward a Statement Signing for Newcastle
Matias Fernandez-Pardo
Fernandez-Pardo enjoyed a real breakout season for Lille last season, and his versatility is expected to be something that could help him reach the top level in the coming seasons.
A number of top clubs have shown interest in the forward, but Newcastle are the team who seem to be pushing hardest to bring him in at this stage, and should they complete a deal it would be a real statement.
His talent has been obvious to those who have watched him, and scout Antonio Mango believes that his 'explosive' traits could make him a true gem in the future with the right coaching.
"With a bit more coaching and guidance, he possesses a lot of tools you desire," he said.