Arsenal are reportedly ready to meet LOSC Lille’s demands to sign Canadian international Jonathan David, but could face one massive setback.
According to a report from Fichajes, LOSC Lille are prepared to offload Jonathan David in the summer transfer window. The reigning French champions have set a €50 million asking fee for the talented forward, who has been identified as a transfer priority by Premier League giants Arsenal.
The Gunners are even willing to pay €50 million in order to sign the Canadian international. However, Arsenal are set to face stiff competition from a number of clubs across Europe, including Premeir League rivals Newcastle United. Even Barcelona are believed to be involved in the hunt, despite signing former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in January.
With a tally of 16 goals in 35 competitive appearances this term, David has been a consistent performer for LOSC Lille despite the club’s mid-table status in Ligue 1. Since joining Les Dogues in 2020, the youngster has emerged as a major attacking asset for the club, with his 13 goals last term notably helping Lille secure the Ligue 1 title.
The 22-year-old’s performances have not only been restricted to club football, as the attacker has been in a tremendous run of form for Canada as well. In just 27 outings, he has netted an impressive 20 goals and could fire his nation into the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup.
On paper, Jonathan David appears to be an excellent option for Arsenal as they prepare for life without Alexandre Lacazette next season. The Frenchman’s current deal at the Emirates expires at the end of the season, and it won’t be surprising to see him depart the club in the summer, especially as Arsenal continue to delay talks of a potential extension.
It has compelled the Gunners to go all out on David, whose goalscoring prowess, combined with his pace and versatility in the final third, makes him an ideal option for Mikel Arteta.
However, the report suggests David is only willing to move to a club that can offer regular Champions League football. It could make things tricky for Arsenal, who are currently embroiled in a tense top-four race. The Londoners are presently sixth in the league table but have three games in hand over Manchester United and West Ham United.
While the Gunners can easily get into the top four if they can win their remaining matches, tricky fixtures against Watford, Liverpool, and Leicester City could make things significantly more difficult, which, in turn, could have an adverse effect on their transfer ambitions in the summer.