Liverpool aim to outmaneuver Newcastle for Matias Fernandez-Pardo

Liverpool are poised to outmaneuver Newcastle United for Lille forward Matias Fernandez‑Pardo, the 21‑year‑old who has featured 41 times and contributed 15 goals this term, a move highlighted in a recent report. The Anfield club sees the striker as a key addition to revive a disappointing 2025‑26 season.

Last summer Liverpool forced Alexander Isak out of Newcastle United’s St James’ Park and secured Hugo Ekitike from under the Magpies’ noses. Both players were described as potential boosts for Newcastle, which finished outside the top ten for the first time in many years.

This summer Eddie Howe believed his side could escape Liverpool’s grasp, but a week ago Newcastle signed Victor Munoz after weeks of negotiation. Liverpool, however, completed the Munoz deal shortly before the Magpies’ announcement.

Newcastle’s next target is Lille forward Matias Fernandez‑Pardo, while they also monitor Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli. The i Paper reported, “Newcastle United are considering moves for Lille forward Matias Fernandez‑Pardo and highly‑rated Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli after suffering the bitter blow of missing out on Victor Munoz.”

Supporters express deep scepticism about the club’s ability to deliver such deals, a sentiment echoed by insiders who highlighted Newcastle’s recent success in signing goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen over Chelsea, Real Madrid and Tottenham.

In mid‑June Newcastle sources voiced frustration over the Munoz episode, describing the optics as poor and warning against a repeat of last summer’s panic‑driven transfer window.

Liverpool’s own recruitment needs remain acute; Mohamed Salah has left and Hugo Ekitike’s return date is still unset. Uncertainty also surrounds Cody Gakpo’s future and the impact of Richard Hughes by the start of the season.

Matias Fernandez‑Pardo, a Belgian, has logged 41 appearances for Lille across all competitions this term and directly contributed to 15 goals, operating across the front three and occasionally in the number 10 role.

His style has been likened to Rafael Leao’s 2018/19 Lille season, when the Portuguese international played 26 matches and added 10 goals before moving to AC Milan, where he flourished.