Newcastle United official statement confirms eighth summer signing as 'very ambitious' verdict delivered
Newcastle United transfers: Matias Fernandez-Pardo has been confirmed as Newcastle’s eighth senior summer signing on deadline day.
Newcastle United have secured the £51million signing of Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille.
The Belgium international has agreed a five-year deal at St James’ Park and follows the arrivals of Ewen Jaouen, Sean Steur, Bazoumana Toure, Aladji Bamba, Lukas Hornicek, Amar Dedic and Nico Gonzalez through the door in what has been a busy summer for the Magpies.
The 21-year-old arrives as a versatile attacking option for head coach Matthias Jaissle. He has predominantly played on the left wing or through the middle in his career but is also capable of playing in a deeper No. 10 role or on the right.
Announcing Fernandez-Pardo’s arrival, Newcastle described the player as ‘a direct, high-intensity forward’ after his eight goals and five assists in 29 appearances helped Lille finish third in Ligue 1 and qualify for the Champions League.
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Matias Fernandez-Pardo reacts to NUFC transfer
Upon signing for Newcastle on transfer deadline day, Fernandez-Pardo told the club website: “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."
Matthias Jaissle ‘excited’ following major transfer agreement
Fernandez-Pardo becomes the third signing made since the appointment of Jaissle as head coach.
“I am very happy to welcome Matias to our club,” Jaissle said. “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 United shirt.”