A period of significant transition appears to be underway at Atletico Madrid as manager Diego Simeone prepares his squad for the 2025/26 campaign. Prompted, in part, by a subpar performance at this summer`s FIFA Club World Cup, the club is actively reshaping its roster, with several notable departures already confirmed.
Long-serving players like Reinildo Mandava, Axel Witsel, and Cesar Azpilicueta have moved on following the conclusion of their contracts. Midfielder Rodrigo Riquelme has completed a transfer to Real Betis, while perhaps the most significant attacking change sees Argentinian forward Angel Correa wrap up an 11-year tenure in Madrid, completing a move to Liga MX side Tigres.
Inbound activity has also commenced, with reports indicating a combined expenditure of €60 million to secure the services of Alex Baena from Villarreal and Matteo Ruggeri from Atalanta earlier in the summer window.
However, the departure of Angel Correa creates a specific need within Simeone`s tactical framework. Known for his ability to operate across various positions in the final third, Correa provided valuable versatility. Replacing this particular skillset is a priority for the technical staff looking to supplement the existing attacking options in the Spanish capital.
Emerging as a potential candidate to fill this void is Matias Fernandez-Pardo, a young forward currently plying his trade with Lille in France`s Ligue 1.
The 20-year-old Belgian creative player joined Lille last summer after spending three years with Gent. According to reports from Diario AS, Atletico Madrid has been keeping a particularly close watch on his development, dispatching scouts to monitor his progress since the beginning of 2025.
Interest in Fernandez-Pardo isn`t limited to the Wanda Metropolitano, with La Liga rivals Villarreal also reportedly tracking the player. An interesting facet of his profile is the rumour circulating that the player himself is keen on a move to Spain, having recently switched his international allegiance to La Roja after representing Belgium at youth levels. This potential preference was highlighted when Lille reportedly blocked his inclusion in Santi Denia`s UEFA U21 European Championship squad last month.
Comparisons to former Chelsea star Eden Hazard, while potentially placing considerable pressure on a young player, have undoubtedly raised Fernandez-Pardo`s profile. The practical reality of securing his signature lies in his contractual situation; his current deal with Lille runs until 2029, providing the French club with a strong negotiating position. Reports suggest Lille values the player at around €15 million, a figure that reflects his potential and recent performances, which included scoring four goals and providing three assists last season.
As Atletico Madrid continues its squad restructuring, the search for a versatile forward to replace Angel Correa`s contribution appears focused on promising young talent. Matias Fernandez-Pardo fits the profile of a player capable of adapting to Simeone`s demands, though navigating his long-term contract and reported valuation will be key to any potential transfer discussions.
