Newcastle United have completed a deadline-day deal for Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo, ending a transfer saga that stretched back to May. The 21-year-old Belgium international becomes the Magpies’ eighth signing of a busy summer window. The move strengthens a Newcastle attack that lost Anthony Gordon, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali earlier in the close season.
What Happened?
Newcastle confirmed on deadline day that Fernandez-Pardo had signed a long-term contract, reported by multiple outlets to run for five years. The club did not disclose the fee, but British media widely reported a figure of around £51 million, while French and Portuguese sources put the total closer to €60–65 million with add-ons included. Fernandez-Pardo had been Newcastle’s top target since the spring, and sporting director Ross Wilson said the club had “waited patiently” throughout the process.
The forward’s departure from Lille had looked increasingly likely in the final days of the window. He was left out of Lille’s squad for a draw with Paris Saint-Germain and was told to train away from the first team while his future was resolved, a sign that his exit was close.
Latest Update
Fernandez-Pardo has been handed the number 20 shirt at St James’ Park, previously worn by Anthony Elanga. He joined Lille from Belgian club Genk in 2024 and went on to help the French side qualify for the UEFA Champions League last season, also representing Belgium at this year’s World Cup. His arrival has coincided with Newcastle striker Nick Woltemade leaving on a season-long loan to Juventus, freeing up space in Matthias Jaissle’s forward line.
Why It Matters
For the player: Fernandez-Pardo moves to a Premier League club with genuine European ambitions, and head coach Jaissle has already described him as “a highly technical player with explosiveness.”
For Newcastle: The signing rounds off an extensive rebuild that has brought in eight new faces, several of them aged 21 or under, as the club looks to freshen up its squad following a summer of high-profile departures.
For fans: Supporters get a versatile forward capable of playing centrally or from the wing, adding depth and pace to Newcastle’s attacking options for the new season.
What Happens Next?
Fernandez-Pardo is expected to be available for selection in the coming weeks once international clearance and registration are completed. Reports suggest he could feature as early as Newcastle’s home fixture against Bournemouth.
Key Facts
- Newcastle have signed Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille on a long-term contract.
- Reported fee: around £51 million (widely varying reports put the total between £51m–€65m with add-ons).
- Fernandez-Pardo is Newcastle’s eighth summer signing.
- He will wear the number 20 shirt.
- The move follows Nick Woltemade’s loan exit to Juventus.
FAQ
What did Newcastle pay for Matias Fernandez-Pardo?
Newcastle have not confirmed an official figure, but UK media widely report a fee of around £51 million, with some European outlets citing a higher total including add-ons.
Is Fernandez-Pardo Newcastle’s last signing of the window?
He is confirmed as Newcastle’s eighth signing of the summer transfer window, completed on deadline day.
What position does Fernandez-Pardo play?
He is a forward who can operate centrally or in wide areas, known for his pace and directness.
When could Fernandez-Pardo make his Newcastle debut?
An exact date has not been confirmed, but he is expected to be available for selection within the coming weeks.
