Volkswacht Bodensee - Newcastle sign Lille forward Fernandez-Pardo

Fernandez-Pardo agreed a long-term contract with Newcastle, who are rebuilding their squad following the close-season departures of Anthony Gordon, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.

Fernandez-Pardo missed Lille's clash against Paris St-Germain last week and was told to train away from the rest of the squad while his future was resolved.

The 21-year-old, who arrived from Genk in 2024, helped Lille finish third in Ligue 1 last season.

He also played for Belgium at the recent World Cup.

"I know the club, I know about the stadium, I know it's a fantastic atmosphere. I've followed the team," Fernandez-Pardo said.

"What I've seen is a team that's very ambitious. I'm still young, I'm still hungry, and that's why I'm here, and I want to make that progress with Newcastle.

"I can't wait to start the wonderful adventure here."

Fernandez-Pardo had been a target for Newcastle for several months.

The Magpies beat Tottenham 2-0 last weekend after drawing with Liverpool in their opening Premier League game.

"Matias is a highly technical player with explosiveness in his game," Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle said.

"He can score and assist, he has courage, and he has the ability to take players on.

"We're sure our supporters will enjoy watching him play. He has already shown in Lille that he can perform on the big stage."

S.Spengler--VB