Lille star Matias Fernandez-Pardo seals Newcastle move

The forward arrived in Tyneside on Monday night and subsequently underwent his medical before finalising the move. Fernandez-Pardo later spoke with Newcastle 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."

The transfer brings an end to a pursuit that stretches back to Eddie Howe's time in charge. Newcastle have tracked Fernandez-Pardo for some time, with his ability to play in multiple attacking positions particularly attractive to Jaissle as he looks to add depth to his squad.

Fernandez-Pardo's departure had appeared increasingly likely after Lille left him out of their squad for last week's 2-2 draw with Paris St-Germain. He had also been instructed to work separately from the French club's first-team group while his situation was resolved.

The Belgian-born attacker's statistics underline why Newcastle were keen to secure his services. He created 21 big chances last season, the second-highest figure among players aged 21 or younger in Europe's top five leagues.

He also ranked fifth for touches in the opposition box (184) and shots on target (30), while his combined tally of 13 goals and assists placed him seventh. 

READ MORE: Julian Alvarez stays put at Atletico Madrid as Barcelona wait