Liverpool are heading to France in search of a new winger, with Lille attacker Matias Fernandes-Pardo reportedly emerging as one of the names being considered.
According to the Express, the Reds have been linked with the 21-year-old Belgian attacker as they continue to consider a wide range of options.
Liverpool have already been linked with several forward signings this summer, especially after missing out on Yann Diomand, who is expected to join Paris Saint-Germain.
Fernandes-Pardo is not thought to be Liverpool’s only target, but his name is interesting.
Liverpool Offside has named him as one of the candidates, alongside players such as Bradley Barcora, Said El Mara and Yankuba Minte.
Fernández-Pardo fits the profile of a young attacker
Liverpool’s interest makes sense given the type of forward they appear to be targeting.
Fernández-Pardo is young, quick, direct and has the ability to play across the front lines.
Although he is still developing, his performances for Lille have already attracted attention from clubs outside France.
The big issue is the price. Yahoo Sports reported that Lille could ask around €70 million for the forward, which is no small bet.
For Liverpool, achieving this figure will require a lot of confidence in their long-term ceiling. The Reds need offensive depth, but they also need players who can make an impact quickly.
Fernandez-Pardo has potential, but he’s not as proven as some of the other names being rumored.
Liverpool are right to keep the Belgian on their shortlist
Fernandes-Pardo is a player Liverpool should scout closely, but they shouldn’t rush to buy.
He has exciting qualities and could be a very good winger in the Premier League, especially in a system that emphasizes pace, pressing and movement.
But if Lille’s valuation is indeed close to €70m, then Liverpool need to pay attention.
At that price, the club should be looking for a player who is already elite or clearly ready to start on a regular basis.
Barcola may be the more sophisticated option, but Fernandez-Pardo feels like a long-term project with a high ceiling.
Liverpool should keep the conversation going, but the Reds need to sign their next winger based on value and suitability, rather than frustration after missing out on Diomande.
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