The transfer battle between Liverpool and Newcastle United for Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo is heating up. The 21-year-old has caught the attention of both clubs, with Liverpool reportedly considering him as a possible alternative to RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, whose valuation has soared to around €120m.
Fernandez-Pardo impressed in Ligue 1 last season, directly contributing to 13 goals in 29 league appearances. His impressive production, combined with his age and versatility, makes him an attractive target for clubs looking for long-term attacking upside.
While Diomande is highly rated after his World Cup performances for Ivory Coast, Leipzig's asking price is prohibitively high. This is why Fernandez-Pardo makes sense for Liverpool. He would be cheaper than Diomande, still has major development potential, and could provide Andoni Iraola with another quick, technical forward for his high-intensity system.
Liverpool have already beaten Newcastle to one attacking signing this summer, landing Víctor Muñoz from Osasuna for around €40m. This new competition for Fernandez-Pardo makes their pursuit even more intriguing.
Newcastle, meanwhile, are searching for wide players to replace the pace and directness of Anthony Gordon, who left the club to join Barcelona. They are tracking Köln winger Said El Mala, but Fernandez-Pardo looks like one of the more advanced names on their list, given that contact has already been made.
If Liverpool fail to land their top targets, they could quickly move for Fernandez-Pardo, leaving Newcastle to act fast to avoid losing another winger race to the Reds.
