With merely days left in this summer transfer window, time was always ticking down for Newcastle United to get some quality deals done. And now, after weeks of dragging on, it looks like they are going to complete another signing.
The club have stuck to bringing in youngsters this summer. Players who have high potential but are in their early 20s or even younger. And it looks like they are ready to pull off another such signing.
This time around, the transfer fee could be a premium though. This acceleration might also be a result of clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool being linked with the player over the past few days. This might have given the Magpies the push they needed to get it done quickly, especially as it looks like Cody Gakpo is headed to Man City.
Newcastle United to close agreement over next signing
According to Santi Aouna, Newcastle United are close to an agreement with Lille for Matias Fernandez-Pardo. The Magpies have stepped up the discussions and are nearing the amount requested by the French club for the transfer of the Belgian forward.
Earlier, it had been reported that Newcastle United were willing to offer €60 million. On the other hand, Lille wanted €70 million to part ways with Fernandez-Pardo.
It looks like the gap that existed in valuations is now set to be bridged. And if so, expect Fernandez-Pardo to be holding up a Newcastle United jersey very soon.
The Belgian has not been training with Lille lately, as he has been keen on a move away from the club. And it looks like he is set to be granted that wish very soon.
Obviously, the rumoured interest from Liverpool and Arsenal means that this deal cannot be considered done until it is officially announced by the club. It does seem to be headed in the right direction though, which is a positive in itself.
What does Fernandez-Pardo bring to this Newcastle team?
Fernandez-Pardo is 21 years of age. In 71 games for Lille, he has scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists. So, even if Newcastle United sign him for €70 million, the fans cannot expect a ready-made player.
Fernandez-Pardo still has a lot of room for growth. That being said, what Newcastle United would be getting is potential that has drawn the eye of clubs like Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Liverpool and more.
Also, his numbers while starting as a centre-forward last season were quite good. In 16 starts, he scored seven goals and provided four assists. Most would be happy with that output.
And things are looking up for Newcastle United in those forward areas regardless. Yoane Wissa and Anthony Elanga scored against Tottenham Hotspur this weekend. Bazoumana Toure and Harvey Barnes were on the scoresheet in midweek against West Bromwich Albion. So, the outlook is much more positive than it was a few weeks back.
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