Newcastle United Sign Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille for £51.4m
BBC Homepage > Sport > Football > Premier League > Newcastle United
Newcastle United have signed forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille for an initial £51.4m.
The 21-year-old Belgium international flew into Tyneside on Monday night to complete a medical and sign a long-term contract. After talks with head coach Matthias Jaissle, Fernandez-Pardo expressed his pride in joining "such a big club".
He highlighted the club's stadium and its passionate atmosphere, stating he was "still young, still hungry" and eager to progress with Newcastle.
Fernandez-Pardo had been left out of Lille's squad for their 2-2 draw against Paris St-Germain due to unresolved transfer negotiations. He is a long-standing target for Newcastle, who have shown interest since former head coach Eddie Howe was in charge.
Jaissle described Fernandez-Pardo as "a highly technical player with explosiveness" who can score and assist, and noted his versatility across the frontline.
"We're sure our supporters will enjoy watching him play," Jaissle added.