Lille have banished Matias Fernandez-Pardo from training until the end of the transfer window.
A bombshell decision comes just hours after the Newcastle United target went rogue on social media. In similar fashion to detested former Toon striker Alexander Isak, the Belgian wrote: “Very disappointed to see so many lies and false things circulating in the press. God is great. In time, the truth always ends up speaking for itself.”
Toon chiefs are understood to have expressed interest in Fernandez-Pardo to bolster Matthias Jaissle’s ranks. As reported earlier this week, the Magpies were always keen to add a forward option after securing Nico Gonzalez.
Capable of playing across the frontline, Fernandez-Pardo enjoyed a breakout campaign last year, with 15 goal contributions across all competitions. The 21-year-old is keen to explore his options before the Tuesday transfer deadline.
As it stands, the sticking point appears to be the price tag. Lille value the forward closer to the £60million mark - deemed hefty by Newcastle sources.
For the deal to happen, either the Magpies must stump up the bold asking price or there will need to be a compromise on Lille’s end. Toon fans will not take easily to Fernandez-Pardo’s recent actions that draw parallels to the Isak saga last summer.
He has been absent from the side in recent weeks - missing the pre-season clash with Everton. Reports later emerged that Fernandez-Pardo refused to play amid his desire to leave the club.
Likewise, the youngster missed the opening game of the Ligue 1 campaign. Speaking ahead of Lille’s clash against Paris Saint-Germain, manager Davide Ancelotti said: “We made the decision that he will no longer train with the group until the end of the transfer window."
Newcastle United player teases Alexander Isak as new Liverpool footage emerges
Newcastle United player teases Alexander Isak as new Liverpool footage emerges