Arsenal are reportedly interested in a summer move for current Ligue 1 top scorer Jonathan David as Mikel Arteta ramps up his search for a forward.
According to the Evening Standard, Arsenal could make a summer move for 21-year-old Canadian international Jonathan David, with the Ligue 1 top scorer displaying abilities the north Londoners are seeking in a new centre-forward.
Lille’s struggles after their title-winning season have not affected the performances of Jonathan David. The 21-year-old attacker has been on top of his game and is leading the goalscoring charts in Ligue 1 this season. His exploits have attracted a few clubs who could chase a summer move.
David has emerged on the radar of quite a few outfits in recent months who have watched him play regularly this season. There is plenty of interest from the Premier League, with Newcastle United leading the way over a possible January transfer for the striker.
However, Lille might not be interested in losing their main centre-forward in the winter window and could be inclined to wait until the summer when a transfer battle could potentially ensue. Liverpool, who were keen on the striker last summer, could reignite their interest after the season although they face competition from Arsenal.
Signing for Liverpool might be extremely attractive, although David might not be a sure starter for the Reds, with Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino going strong. A glance towards the talented Divock Origi might tell him a story. However, the 21-year-old could play a key role at a club like Arsenal.
The Gunners will be without Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah next season, with the strike duo running down their respective contracts. Arsenal are prepared to spend big on a new centre-forward and are considering David for a move next summer.
The situation leaves Arteta with just Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a viable option to lead the line, opening up space in the squad for a high quality attacker. Arsenal are also interested in Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who could cost the Gunners more than £60 million.
There is a long list of players connected with a move to Arsenal, although Arteta will decide on his priority target after further deliberation. David certainly falls under the criteria of forwards similar to Calvert-Lewin and Dusan Vlahovic. His age and the ability to play with both feet also puts him in a promising position with Arsenal.
The Gunners are aware that David will cost a huge transfer fee, as he is contracted with Lille until 2025. It is also why the Ligue 1 champions are not in a hurry to cash in on the 21-year-old attacker, as they expect some teams to make an offer in January.