Newcastle make bid for 21yo Arsenal target

Newcastle United have made a formal bid to sign Arsenal target Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille before the transfer deadline, as per L'Equipe.

The Magpies are aiming to freshen up their attack before the transfer window closes and have earmarked Fernandez-Pardo as a potential target.

They have now made an official bid worth £38.5m for the Belgian ace, but the French outfit are likely to snub the proposal.

Lille are determined to keep hold of their prized attacking asset and don't want to lose his services unless they receive £60m.

They have already rejected bids from Atletico and Sporting CP, and are widely expected to snub the proposal from Newcastle too.

Arsenal have yet to make an official offer for the youngster, but it could happen once Gabriel Martinelli heads for the exit door.

Gabriel Martinelli is on the verge of joining Al-Hilal. His exit could pave the way for a move for Fernandez-Pardo, who can play on the left wing or up front.