Newcastle sign Fernandez-Pardo from Lille for £51m

Newcastle United have signed forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille for an initial £51.4m.

Fernandez-Pardo flew into Tyneside on Monday night to have a medical and sign a long-term contract.

The 21-year-old said he was “very proud to be at such a big club” following talks with head coach Matthias Jaissle.

“He really showed how much he wanted me to be here,” the Belgium international said.

“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.

“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.”

Fernandez-Pardo was left out of Lille’s squad for the 2-2 draw against Paris St-Germain last week and ordered to train away from the first-team squad until his future was resolved.

The forward has been a long-standing target of Newcastle’s – dating back to former head coach Eddie Howe’s time in charge – and fits the age range the club have been targeting.

Of those players aged 21 and under across Europe’s big five leagues last season, Fernandez-Pardo ranked second for big chances (21), fifth for touches in the opposition box (184) and shots on target (30), and seventh for goals and assists combined (13).

His ability to play in a number of positions across the frontline also made him an attractive target as Jaissle looked to strengthen his squad.

“Matias is a highly technical player with explosiveness in his game,” Jaissle said. “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 United shirt.”

By BBC Sports