Fernandez-Pardo deal could pave way for Woltemade exit
- Published
Newcastle United are closing in on the signing of Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo in a deal worth up to £55m.
The move could pave the way for fellow forward Nick Woltemade to leave on loan following interest from Juventus.
The Belgium 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 manager Matthias Jaissle looked to strengthen his squad.
What business do Newcastle still need to do - both ins and outs - before the transfer deadline at 23:00 BST on Tuesday?
