Aston Villa Set Sights on Lille Forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo

Aston Villa have set their sights on Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo. The 21-year-old Belgium international striker is currently at the World Cup.

What's the attraction?

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery wants attacking reinforcements, and Fernandez-Pardo's versatility has attracted the club. He plays as a number 9, on both wings, and as a number 10 in midfielder.

Why it matters for Aston Villa

The Midlands club have scouts in North America to monitor Fernandez-Pardo and other potential transfer targets at the World Cup. Belgium were held to a 1-1 draw by Egypt, but Fernandez-Pardo only came on for the final five minutes.

What comes next?

Fernandez-Pardo will hope to play more minutes in Belgium's upcoming games against Iran and New Zealand. A move to the Premier League could appeal to him, and Aston Villa's offer of Champions League football next season puts them in a favourable position.