Newcastle United have signed forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille on a long-term contract.
The 21-year-old has arrived at St James’ Park for a fee understood to be £51million.
Having spent six years in Lille’s academy, Fernandez-Pardo moved to Gent’s youth set-up before making his senior debut for the Belgian side in 2023.
Returning to Lille in 2024, he featured in the Champions League and Europa League, helping them secure third place in Ligue 1 last year. A Belgium international, the forward featured three times at this summer’s World Cup.
Speaking about his move, Fernandez-Pardo said: “I’m really, really happy to be here and very proud to be at such a big club.
“I spoke to the head coach and he really showed how much he wanted me to be here. In terms of my own career progression, it made complete sense to come so I didn’t hesitate at all.
“I know the club, I know about the stadium, I know it’s a fantastic atmosphere. I’ve followed the team. What I’ve seen is a team that’s very ambitious, wants to attack, get forward, really chase teams and go after them, and that’s really something I want to take part in as well.
“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.”
Newcastle boss Matthias Jaissle added: “I am very happy to welcome Matias to our club. We were all delighted when we knew we could complete this deal.
“Matias is a highly technical player with explosiveness in his game. 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, and we will work closely with him to keep developing his game further. We are excited to see him in a Newcastle shirt.”
Fernandez-Pardo is Newcastle’s eighth summer signing, joining Nico Gonzalez, Sean Steur and Amar Dedic among the new arrivals on Tyneside.
Meanwhile, reports indicate Nick Woltemade is set to join Juventus on a season-long loan.
