Newcastle close in on Matias Fernandez Pardo after Lille breakthrough - Report

A significant update has arrived from France this morning regarding Newcastle's pursuit of Matias Fernandez-Pardo.

Earlier this week, reports emerged of our renewed interest in the Belgian international forward, with one outlet claiming the club had launched a £51m 'now or never' offer to Lille.

Four days on, following claims that the 21-year-old is keen to seal a move to St James' Park, it's believed Newcastle are nearing a breakthrough.

Fernandez-Pardo agreement close

According to Foot Mercato's Santi Aouna, Newcastle United are close to reaching an agreement to sign Matias Fernandez-Pardo.

In his Sunday morning exclusive, he reports that Newcastle have stepped up talks with the Ligue 1 side and are now nearing their demands.

Lille's asking price is not clear, although it was suggested earlier this week that it could take up to £60m to land the versatile Belgian.

NUFCBlog were the first to report on Newcastle's interest in Fernandez-Pardo, revealing in May that he was high on the club's wanted list, alongside evetual signing Bazoumana Toure.

Why the Belgian could be brilliant 

There is so much to like about Fernandez-Pardo.

Not only is he 21 and the ideal age profile for our new-look transfer policy, he would also bring speed, versatility and huge potential to Jaissle's squad.

Much like Anthony Gordon, the Belgian can play anywhere across the front three, spending time on either flank or in a false nine role throughout his young career.

He is also direct, able to beat a man and has bags of pace, not to mention a 6ft 2" frame that could help him cope with the demands of English football.

With the transfer window shutting at 11pm on Tuesday, let's hope Newcastle really are closing in on a deal for signing number eight of the summer.