Man United transfer news: Red Devils join the race for in-demand Ligue 1 sensation

Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund have reportedly joined the growing list of clubs tracking one of Ligue 1's most exciting young talents ahead of the summer transfer window.

Matias Fernandez-Pardo arrived at Lille from Gent for £10m (€11.5m) in the summer of 2024 and has truly emerged during the second half of this season. The versatile forward, capable of operating anywhere across the front line, has been deployed as a central striker and has produced impressive numbers — seven goals and four assists in 16 appearances in that role this season.

A finish to the campaign of that quality was always going to attract a host of suitors, particularly with Fernandez-Pardo set to represent Belgium at the World Cup this summer. L'Equipe has already flagged him as one of the most likely names to dominate the transfer market in the coming weeks. Atletico Madrid, who circled him in the winter, are said to still be tracking the Belgian.

Borussia Dortmund eye loan move for Matias Fernandez-Pardo

That is far from the complete picture. The youngster is also understood to feature on Barcelona's shortlist, and has attracted attention from Manchester City and Inter Milan. Sky Sport Germany has now added two more significant names to that list, revealing that Borussia Dortmund are also eyeing the Lille forward.

The German side have made enquiries about the attacker, whose asking price is reported to be in the region of £26m (€30m). Borussia Dortmund, who will play Champions League football next season, reportedly considered requesting a loan deal this summer, but the level of competition for his signature could make such an arrangement extremely difficult to arrange.

Manchester United join the race for in-demand Belgian gem

The same source adds that numerous clubs are looking to sign Fernandez-Pardo permanently this summer. Sky Sport Germany names Manchester United — who appear to have moved away from the Yan Diomande pursuit in attack — as an interested party in the profile of the soon-to-be senior international.

The Belgian could fit seamlessly into the Red Devils' attacking rotation as the club look to bolster their squad ahead of a return to Champions League football. He would offer an additional option in Michael Carrick's 4-2-3-1 system, given his ability to play on either flank or as a central striker. Fernandez-Pardo could notably prove the answer to the problem created by the likely departure of Joshua Zirkzee.