Newcastle United are preparing a major offensive in the closing stages of the summer trading period, with reports suggesting the club could invest up to £100million before the deadline closes.
The Tyneside club have contacted Lille regarding forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo as negotiations with Manchester City over Nico Gonzalez remain active.
Transfer chief Ross Wilson is eager to secure the services of the talented Belgian international at St James’ Park as Eddie Howe’s side look to complete swift business in the final days before the window shuts, though the French club are refusing to budge on their valuation and want £60million for the striker.
Wilson is targeting three new signings before the deadline, with Fernandez-Pardo, Gonzalez, and additional cover at left-back all on his list of priorities.
The Magpies’ wealthy Saudi ownership have allocated funds for the Gonzalez transfer at £50million, with additional financial resources earmarked for a forward and a left-back, although goalkeeper Nick Pope and midfielder Joe Willock, both targeted by Besiktas, may depart before deadline day.
It is understood Matthias Jaissle is an admirer of Fernandez-Pardo, with talks having taken place, but Lille are standing firm in their position.
The Belgium international has also attracted attention from RB Leipzig, with an offer approaching £34.21million apparently prompting Newcastle to enter fresh discussions.
Lille’s opening position on the 6ft 2in 21-year-old is that they do not wish to sell unless an exceptional offer arrives. As things stand, Newcastle have reached no agreement on Fernandez-Pardo and continue working on a deal for the Manchester City player.
Fernandez-Pardo is tied to Lille until 2029 and has expressed a desire for a fresh challenge in either the Premier League or Bundesliga, which would likely appeal to the young forward.
Lille transfer chief Sylvain Armand has commented on Fernandez-Pardo’s future this summer, stating the player is highly important and they are relying on him, with discussions about departure not necessarily on the agenda at present.
The 21-year-old has long been on Arsenal’s radar while Atletico Madrid are also interested in the Ligue 1 player.
Securing Gonzalez would provide a significant boost for Newcastle with seven days remaining in the window, though there are other areas requiring attention, including left-back reinforcement for Lewis Hall and potentially another forward option.
When questioned about further activity, Jaissle, speaking after the draw with Liverpool, indicated the squad performed brilliantly but acknowledged internal awareness of specific requirements that remain private.
When asked how many signings would be needed to strengthen the squad, he responded that the number could be counted on one hand.