Finally, Newcastle United have pulled it off. After weeks of speculation and rumours, they are set to make another addition to Mathias Jaissle’s squad.
Things have been looking up for Jaissle’s side for quite some time now. Their start to the campaign has been excellent. A draw against Liverpool has been followed up by wins over West Bromwich Albion and Tottenham Hotspur.
On the other hand, the squad has been improved as well. Nico Gonzalez has been signed from Manchester City and he looked class against Spurts.
Now, it looks like Newcastle United are set to make another big-money addition to their squad before the summer transfer window slams shut.
Newcastle United agree signing
According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle United have agreed on a deal to sign Matias Fernandez Pardo from Lille. The Italian journalist has given the move his famous ‘here we go’ seal of approval.
Newcastle United are set to pay a €60 million fee plus add-ons to Lille. Fernandez-Pardo has said yes to Magpies’ project. He will fly today.
This has to be viewed as a coup for the Magpies for sure. Let us not forget that Fernandez-Pardo has been linked with the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Man City this summer as well.
So, he is an elite prospect. Of course, a lot will depend on his development at St James’ Park. But in terms of potential, Newcastle United have signed a top talent.
Will Fernandez-Pardo solve Newcastle United’s problems?
This is a separate discussion altogether. He has scored just 12 goals in 71 appearances for Lille. This is not someone who will come in and immediately start scoring a bunch for the Magpies.
This is the type of player who will need some time to develop. And he needs to be given that time and opportunity to do so, after spending €60 million-plus to bring him to St James’ Park.
At the same time, though, there has to be a recognition that he cannot look out of sorts. Just look at how things have turned out for Nick Woltemade.
The German international was also considered an elite talent. But just after a year at St James’ Park, it looks like he is going to head elsewhere, because he does not have a place in the team.
