Liverpool are reportedly preparing to hijack Newcastle United's move for Lille forward Matías Fernández-Pardo after reaching an agreement to sign Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola. The 21-year-old Belgian international has attracted strong interest from Newcastle, but Liverpool have now made contact as they consider another attacking addition before the transfer window closes.
Liverpool Brutally Hijack Newcastle Transfer As Next Target After Bradley Barcola Identified
Liverpool are reportedly targeting another Newcastle United transfer after making contact over Lille forward Matías Fernández-Pardo.
The development comes shortly after Liverpool reached an agreement with Paris Saint-Germain for Bradley Barcola, suggesting that the Reds' transfer business may not be finished despite securing one of their major attacking targets.
With the transfer deadline approaching, Liverpool are now considering Fernández-Pardo as another option for their forward line.
Liverpool Turn Attention To Fernández-Pardo
Fernández-Pardo has emerged as the latest player on Liverpool's radar.
The 21-year-old Belgium international is highly regarded at Lille and has attracted interest from Newcastle, who have been working on a potential deal for the forward.
Liverpool have now entered the picture by making contact over his availability, potentially setting up another transfer battle between the two Premier League clubs.
Newcastle Already Keen
Newcastle have reportedly identified Fernández-Pardo as a player capable of strengthening their attack.
The Magpies are understood to have been working on a move for the youngster, with Lille valuing him at approximately £60 million.
His versatility is one of the qualities that has attracted Newcastle, as he can operate as a central striker as well as from the wide attacking positions.
Impressive Record At Lille
Fernández-Pardo's performances in France have helped establish his reputation as one of Lille's promising young attackers.
He scored eight goals and provided seven assists in 41 appearances across all competitions last season.
Those numbers, combined with his ability to play in different attacking positions, have made him an attractive proposition for clubs looking to add youthful quality to their squads.
Another Newcastle Transfer Battle
Liverpool's interest has a familiar feel for Newcastle supporters.
The Reds previously hijacked Newcastle's pursuit of Hugo Ekitike before eventually signing the forward, and Liverpool are now reportedly attempting a similar move for Fernández-Pardo.
That history could make the latest development particularly frustrating for Newcastle if Liverpool ultimately decide to step up their interest.
Barcola Agreement Changes Liverpool's Plans
Liverpool's pursuit of Fernández-Pardo comes immediately after their breakthrough in the Bradley Barcola saga.
The Reds have reportedly agreed a package worth £106 million initially, with a further £17 million available in potential add-ons for the PSG winger.
The agreement represents a major investment in Liverpool's attack, but the club could still look to add another forward before the window closes.
Gakpo Situation Could Be Important
Liverpool's interest in another attacker could also be connected to uncertainty surrounding Cody Gakpo.
Reports indicate that Liverpool have been resistant to selling Gakpo, but their position has reportedly softened provided they can bring in another forward after the Barcola deal.
That could explain why Fernández-Pardo has suddenly become a player of interest at Anfield.
Sarr And Minteh Also Considered
Fernández-Pardo is not the only attacking option Liverpool are considering.
Liverpool reportedly retain an interest in Crystal Palace's Ismaïla Sarr, while the club have also seen two bids rejected by Brighton for Yankuba Minteh.
The Reds therefore appear to be exploring several possibilities as they assess how best to complete their squad before the deadline.
Iraola Wants More Additions
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has refused to rule out further signings.
The Spaniard acknowledged earlier this week that Liverpool still had several days to improve the squad, while admitting that the final stages of the transfer window would involve uncertainty.
He also emphasised that strengthening the wide areas had been a priority for the club.
No Agreement Yet
Despite the headline surrounding a potential hijack, Liverpool have not yet agreed a transfer for Fernández-Pardo.
The current development is that the Reds have made contact over the Lille forward, while Newcastle remain interested.
With Lille reportedly seeking around £60 million, Liverpool would have to decide whether the Belgian fits their plans strongly enough to justify another major investment following the Barcola agreement.
Ultimately, Liverpool's reported approach for Matías Fernández-Pardo could trigger another transfer battle with Newcastle just days after the Reds secured Bradley Barcola. The youngster's versatility, age and impressive record at Lille have made him an attractive target, but Liverpool's interest remains at an exploratory stage. If the Reds decide to push ahead, Newcastle could once again find themselves competing directly with Liverpool for a player they had already identified as a priority.
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