Arsenal add Lille striker to summer shortlist as deadline approaches

Arsenal have added Lille striker Matias Fernandez-Pardo to their shortlist for a potential summer signing, according to a report from France. The 21-year-old has been closely monitored by the Gunners, but purchasing him would likely come at a high cost. Atletico Madrid and RB Leipzig are also interested in the Belgium international, but none seem willing to meet Fernandez-Pardo's asking price of €70m (£59.9m).

Lille president Olivier Letang had previously stated that the player is under contract until 2029 and not for sale, but Foot Mercato claims that an offer exceeding the stated amount would be considered. Liverpool and Chelsea are also reportedly interested, but no club is close to finalizing the deal. Fernandez-Pardo scored eight goals and assisted another seven in Lille's 2025/26 Ligue 1 campaign, helping the team secure a Champions League spot.

He played 41 minutes across three World Cup matches before his team's elimination by Spain. With transfer speculation ongoing, Fernandez-Pardo may prefer to wait until his situation is resolved, but could be called upon by Lille for their upcoming match against Paris Saint-Germain if no resolution is reached by Friday.