Premier League clubs Arsenal and Newcastle United could reportedly be in a summer tussle for Lille forward Jonathan David.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, Arsenal and Newcastle United are vying for the signature of Jonathan David ahead of the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old Lille attacking sensation has been making headlines with a string of impressive performances at the Ligue 1 club.
Jonathan David has been turning heads of some big clubs ever since he broke through at Lille a couple of seasons ago. His numbers in front of the goal have been steady, and this season, he has shown consistency at maintaining good levels from the number nine position.
His physical style and certainty in finishing chances have made him a viable target for clubs across Europe and England. The idea of him playing in the Premier League certainly suits his style of play. Arsenal and Newcastle United are among the clubs credited with an interest, and a transfer tussle could ensue in the summer.
Arsenal are in dire need of a new frontman, with their resources set to be pretty thin in the summer than it already is. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left the club in January, while the other two recognised strikers, Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah, are on contracts that will expire in the off-season.
There is the option of playing Gabriel Martinelli through the middle, but Mikel Arteta has preferred to deploy the Brazilian in a wide attacking role. In any case, they will have to find a top draw striker or two in the next window, with a host of names already linked with the club.
Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is a key target for Arsenal, although he would be a very expensive option by all means. Hence, an alternative such as David, who has been as prolific as the Nigerian, might prove to be useful. Lille are prepared to let him leave if a reasonable offer arrives for their star striker.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United are also interested in the 22-year-old frontman. The Magpies may have significantly strengthened their squad in January, signing a host of players, including Chris Wood from Burnley. But Eddie Howe may look to sign a different kind of striker, with David at the forefront of the club’s plans.
David is also courting interest from PSG, Barcelona and Real Madrid, who are keeping tabs on his progress and summer situation. The Canadian attacking sensation will be in the spotlight during the next window, as many clubs could enter the conversation, although all eyes will be on Lille and their valuation of the striker.