Media reports state that Atletico Madrid are interested in Lille forward Matias Fernandez Pardo.
It is claimed that the Rojiblancos’ interest in Pardo is genuine, even quite strong. Pardo’s entourage has held talks with Atletico’s hierarchy, who clearly expressed their admiration for the player’s attributes. Diego Simeone knows the player well and values his attacking versatility, especially his huge room for development.
However, Atletico Madrid has set other priority targets for this winter window. After Conor Gallagher’s transfer to Tottenham, the club has focused its efforts on signing a central midfielder, putting Pardo’s move on the back burner.
As for Lille, the club has no intention of selling their key asset on the cheap. The club’s stance is clear: Pardo’s transfer fee will not be less than €40 million. This price is a deterrent for most potential suitors in January and reinforces the possibility of maintaining the status quo in the short term. What’s more, Hamza Igamane will be sidelined for six months with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, which may also prompt Lille not to weaken the team’s attacking force in the winter window.
On a personal level, the player has a clear ambition to play in La Liga. This is a strategic choice to get closer to the Spain national team and catch the eye of Spain manager Luis de la Fuente. To date, Spain remains Pardo’s top choice.
However, a move to England is not out of the question. Clubs like West Ham, Crystal Palace and Newcastle United have already made enquiries, and the transfer proposal has been put before his new agent. Although Pardo still prioritises La Liga, an offer from the Premier League, which has far greater financial allure, may ultimately change the situation and make him think seriously.
As things stand, Lille are calm and confident about the player’s immediate future. But in an always unpredictable market, the transfer saga of Pardo is far from over, and the matter remains to be seen.
