Matias Fernandez-Pardo has been linked with a move to [Newcastle United](https://readnewcastle.com/2026/08/26/newcastle-united-ready-accept-offer-only-one-condition/) in recent weeks. In fact, it is believed that the Magpies have made a big-money offer for the Belgian international as well.
But Lille are not in a position where they need to accept a deal unless it is on their terms. As a result, the situation seems to have stalled a bit. Now, the Magpies might already be eyeing alternative targets.
Interestingly, Fernandez-Pardo is a centre-forward or a winger. But the alternative Newcastle United have picked out is someone who plays in the number 10 role.
According to [Santi Auona](https://x.com/Santi_J_FM/status/2092594173555740754), Newcastle United are exploring a move for Bilal El Khannouss. The Fernandez-Pardo deal is currently stalled.
The English club have offered €60 million to LOSC Lille for the transfer of Fernandez-Pardo. But the French side are demanding €70 million.
Lille have recently agreed a €100 million package with Manchester City for the transfer of Ayyoub Bouaddi. So, they should not be under any financial stress to accept another offer, unless they believe they are getting the right deal. And in this case, it looks like they rate Fernandez-Pardo higher than what is being offered for his departure.
So, it remains to be seen if Newcastle United end up advancing in their attempts to sign El Khannouss or not. It does show a lack of clear intention, though, when your alternative is someone who plays in a different position.
El Khannouss was also born in Belgium like Fernandez-Pardo, and even played until the U18 level for the Belgian national side. But he would then switch to Morocco.
El Khannouss is now a well-established international for Morocco and has represented them on 43 occasions. And of course, that is not an easy national team to break into these days.
He already has experience of Premier League football, having played for Leicester City in the English top flight. The Moroccan international spent the previous season on loan at VfB Stuttgart before making the move permanently this summer.
Could he already be on the move again? His 9 goals and 7 assists for VfB Stuttgart last season seem to have caught the attention of Newcastle United.
With very little time left in the summer transfer window, whatever the Magpies want to do, they will need to do it quickly. Whether that be trying to sign Fernandez-Pardo again or completely shift their attention towards El Khannouss.