Arsenal join race for Lille striker Matias Fernandez-Pardo as Julian Alvarez alternative

Arsenal have entered the race to sign Lille striker Matias Fernandez-Pardo during the final days of the summer transfer window, with the Premier League champions considering the Belgium international as a possible alternative to Julian Alvarez.

Newcastle United have regarded Fernandez-Pardo as one of their main transfer targets since the start of the window and are preparing a final attempt to complete a deal before Tuesday’s deadline.

However, Newcastle face competition from several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, who have now emerged as a serious contender for the 1.88m forward.

According to The Telegraph, Arsenal have already opened talks with Fernandez-Pardo’s representatives as the club assesses whether to make a move in the closing hours of the transfer market.

Arsenal’s leading priority for strengthening their attack is believed to be Alvarez, the Atletico de Madrid striker. But the club could step up their interest in Fernandez-Pardo if they are unable to reach an agreement for the Argentina international.

Fernandez-Pardo’s versatility is understood to be one of the factors behind Arsenal’s interest. The Lille player can operate as a central striker or on the left wing, giving manager Mikel Arteta greater flexibility when selecting his attacking options.

Lille’s valuation could prove a significant obstacle, however. The French club are expected to demand £60m for the player, whose contract runs until the summer of 2029.

Arsenal and Newcastle are not the only clubs monitoring Fernandez-Pardo’s situation. Both must also be wary of interest from other Premier League sides as the deadline approaches.

Tottenham Hotspur have been mentioned as a potential destination for the Lille striker, while Liverpool are also in the race.

Liverpool are looking to improve their attacking options in wide areas before the summer transfer window closes, adding another potential rival for Arsenal and Newcastle in the pursuit of Fernandez-Pardo.

The developing interest leaves Lille facing the possibility of a late offer for a player who can provide both a central presence and a wider attacking option. For Arsenal, his ability to cover more than one position could make him a practical alternative should their preferred move for Alvarez fail to materialise.

Newcastle, meanwhile, are expected to push ahead with their efforts to sign the forward, having identified him as a key target for much of the window. With Arsenal now involved and Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool also linked, Fernandez-Pardo’s future could become one of the main stories of the final hours before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.