Belgium World Cup star Matias Fernandez-Pardo has submitted a transfer request to Lille as he seeks a move to a bigger club this summer. The 21-year-old forward is reportedly a target for Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Atletico Madrid.
Background and stats
Fernandez-Pardo came through the academy at Gent before Lille signed him for €10 million (£8.5m) in the summer of 2024. He has since recorded 12 goals and 11 assists in 71 appearances for the French side. His form earned him a call-up to Belgium's squad for this summer's World Cup, where he made three substitute appearances before the team was eliminated in the quarter-finals.
Interest from top clubs
Reports in French outlet L'Equipe suggest that Premier League trio Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool are all interested in Fernandez-Pardo. Spanish giants Atletico Madrid have also been credited with interest. The Belgian is eager to force a move and has handed in a transfer request despite having three years remaining on his contract.
Lille president insists on no sale
However, Lille president Olivier Letang has made it clear that Fernandez-Pardo is not for sale this summer. “The player is under contract until 2029, and his departure is not a topic,” Letang said. “We are counting on him, he knows that, and we have been very clear with him.” When asked about a release clause, Letang added: “He never had a release clause. Every player I told could leave has left. It’s the same old story as last summer, with yet another new agent.”
Bouaddi also attracting attention
While Fernandez-Pardo appears likely to stay, Lille may face a greater challenge in retaining talented central midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old impressed at the World Cup and has attracted interest from several top clubs, with Manchester City reportedly leading the race after direct talks with Lille. Letang hinted that City would need to pay a fee similar to the record sum for Elliot Anderson. “Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him right now,” he told Eurosport. “He’s already one of the best midfielders in the world and still has significant room for improvement. He’s only 18 and has his whole future ahead of him.” Letang also compared Bouaddi to top athletes, saying: “Having worked with him for over three years, I can say he’s an extraordinary young man, unique in every way. He belongs among the true sportsmen like Victor Wembanyama, Paul Seixas, Leon Marchand, or Kylian Mbappe. I could mention Rodri, Sergio Busquets, (Johan) Cruyff, (Albert) Einstein, (Lothar) Matthaus, etc. But Ayyoub is unique and is himself, so he shouldn’t be compared.”
