Arsenal are reportedly in the mix to sign Lille striker Matias Fernandez-Pardo, but they'll face stiff competition from Atletico Madrid and Manchester City for the 21-year-old's signature this summer.

The Spanish youngster has been turning heads in Ligue 1 with his performances as Lille's attacking focal point. So far this season, he's racked up eight goals and seven assists in 39 appearances across all competitions—impressive numbers for a player still finding his feet at the top level.

Fernandez-Pardo is widely regarded as one of the most promising young forwards in French football, so it's no surprise that Arsenal are keen to bring him to the Emirates. His current contract runs until 2029, though, which means Lille are in a strong negotiating position and the Gunners won't be able to land him on the cheap.

What makes Fernandez-Pardo so exciting? He's got a knack for creating space to get his shots off, delivers decisive passes in the final third, and is a confident dribbler with the ball at his feet. He's already adding goals and assists to his game at a steady rate.

That said, he's still raw and would need time to adjust to the highest level. There are also question marks about whether he can handle the physical demands and breakneck pace of the Premier League—something Mikel Arteta would need to carefully manage.

If Arsenal do win the race, Fernandez-Pardo has the tools to strengthen Arteta's frontline over the long haul. At just 21, he's got the potential to develop into a future star in English football, provided he keeps improving year on year. For now, he's very much one for the future—but the future could be bright.