Lille’s chairman delivers firm warning to Fernández-Pardo

Matías Fernández-Pardo returned to training with Lille OSC on Saturday, but the club’s hierarchy made clear that his contract runs until 2029 and no departure is planned. The French side reiterated that the forward will remain at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy this season, despite ongoing speculation.

Lille pursued Fernández-Pardo aggressively after a serious injury to Hamza Igamane sidelined the former first‑choice striker. The club needed a reliable number nine for its Champions League campaign, and Fernández-Pardo stepped into the role, delivering solid performances that boosted his market profile.

Clubs such as Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Atlético Madrid have been linked with the Belgian‑born forward, and Transfermarkt estimates his value at around €35 million. Nevertheless, Lille’s board, represented by chairman Olivier Létang, has signalled that the club will not entertain offers while the player is under contract.

Fernández‑Pardo featured for the Rode Duivel at the recent World Cup, earning minutes in the group stage against Egypt and Iran and a half‑hour against New Zealand. He chose Belgium over Italy and Spain after discussions with Thomas Meunier, Nathan Ngoy and national team staff.

Olivier Létang told L’Équipe that “the player has a contract until 2029 and his departure is not a subject”. He added that “we count on him, he knows that, and we have made that very clear”. The chairman also dismissed rumours of a release clause, stating that no such clause was ever granted.

NIEUW notices on the club’s website urge fans to Ontvang alerts and sign up HIER for updates. De supporters can follow the training sessions Bij the stadium, where both Fernández-Pardo and Nathan Ngoy resumed their preparations.

The firm message means Fernández-Pardo will stay at Lille, providing the French side with a proven striker for the remainder of the campaign, while the Rode Duivel retain a forward ready for future international duties, including upcoming matches against Tegen opponents in the qualification rounds.