The 21-year-old Belgium international forward joins on a long-term contract and becomes the club's eighth first team arrival of a transformative summer transfer window. He will wear the number 20 shirt.

Matias arrives with a growing reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents. Comfortable operating in central or wide areas, he has established himself as a direct, high-intensity forward, and his form for Lille last season played a key role in helping the French club secure UEFA Champions League qualification.

Matias said: “I’m really, really happy to be here and very proud to be at such a big club.

“I spoke to the head coach and he really showed how much he wanted me to be here. In terms of my own career progression, it made complete sense to come so I didn't hesitate at all.

“I know the club, I know about the stadium, I know it's a fantastic atmosphere. I've followed the team. What I've seen is a team that's very ambitious, wants to attack, get forward, really chase teams and go after them, and that's really something I want to take part in as well.

“I'm still young, I'm still hungry, and that's why I'm here, and I want to make that progress with Newcastle. I can't wait to start the wonderful adventure here."

‘Excited to see him’

Newcastle United head coach, Matthias Jaissle, said: “I am very happy to welcome Matias to our club. We were all delighted when we knew we could complete this deal.

“Matias is a highly technical player with explosiveness in his game. He can score and assist, he has courage, and he has the ability to take players on. We’re sure our supporters will enjoy watching him play.

“He has already shown in Lille that he can perform on the big stage, and we will work closely with him to keep developing his game further. We are excited to see him in a Newcastle United shirt.”

‘A really important signing’

The club’s sporting director, Ross Wilson, said: “Matias is a really important signing for us. As I said last week, we waited patiently on Nico González, and this time we've done the same – only longer.

“Matias is a strong example of how a transfer window can unfold with twists and turns along the way. Back in May, he was our top target and we always remained engaged with him. Now, at the end of the window, he becomes our eighth addition to a refreshed Newcastle United, and we are excited to welcome him.

“A lot of hours went into this one, but we're clear on our Newcastle United identity, and Matias, at 21 years old, has speed, intensity and work rate in abundance. We believe in his profile a great deal. Our fans will enjoy him, and I know he will also enjoy our amazing St. James' Park atmosphere.

"I'm confident that with Matthias Jaissle and our staff, he will strongly develop and continue to grow here in Newcastle."

About Matias Fernandez-Pardo

Born in Brussels in February 2005, Matias began playing with Belgian sides Anderlecht and Mechelen as a youngster before joining the academy at Lille in 2014.

After six years in Northern France, he moved back to Belgium to join the youth set-up at Gent, where he progressed to make his debut for the club’s first team in 2023.

Following a break-out 2023/24 season in the Belgian Pro-League, he returned to Lille in the summer of 2024 and has played in both the Champions League and Europa League over the last two years.

Last season, Matias caught the eye as Lille finished third in Ligue 1, earning him a call-up for the Belgian national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup where he appeared in all three Group G fixtures.

Everyone at Newcastle United extends a warm welcome to Matias and his family.