Liverpool are considering a move for Lille winger Matias Fernandez-Pardo as they seek to bolster their attacking options this summer, according to reports. The potential transfer comes amid significant changes for the Reds, including the appointment of Andoni Iraola as their new manager and the expected departures of key players like Mohamed Salah and potentially Federico Chiesa.
Liverpool reportedly went into last season short on wide players following the failure to adequately replace Luis Diaz, and the situation has become more pressing with anticipated exits. While Rio Ngumoha has emerged as a promising option, the club is believed to be in the market for further reinforcements. Initial targets Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola have been linked, but the club may pursue both players if financially feasible.
Fernandez-Pardo, 21, has impressed in Ligue 1 with Lille, demonstrating versatility by playing both as a left-winger and a centre-forward. He started 16 games as a central striker and 13 on the left wing, occasionally appearing on the right as well. Standing at 6ft 2in, he possesses a strong physique and has proven to be an effective dribbler, ranking fourth in Ligue 1 for dribble success rate among players averaging at least five dribbles per game.
His playing style is described as multi-faceted, capable of both taking on defenders in tight spaces and exploiting space behind the defence with his acceleration. This adaptability could be particularly appealing to Iraola, whose system at Bournemouth saw success with players like Antoine Semenyo, who share similar characteristics to Fernandez-Pardo. The Lille star also excels at chance creation, frequently reaching the byline to deliver crosses into the penalty area.
While Fernandez-Pardo is still raw and needs to refine his finishing, Iraola has a track record of improving young attackers. Furthermore, the player’s work rate is notable, averaging more pressing duels per 90 minutes than any other player in Ligue 1 who played at least 2000 minutes last season. This high-intensity pressing aligns with Iraola’s tactical approach, making Fernandez-Pardo a potentially ideal fit for the new manager’s system. The report suggests he could provide service for fellow attacker Alexander Isak. No fee has been reported at this time.
