Jonathan David will reject the idea of signing a new deal with LOSC Lille, as he could explore the market with Arsenal linked with a move.
According to The Daily Briefing by Fabrizio Romano, Jonathan David is unlikely to sign a new deal with LOSC Lille. The Canadian striker will likely explore his options in the next few months before making a decision. He continues to lean towards a big move to the Premier League, and Arsenal are linked with the forward.
Jonathan David’s situation at LOSC Lille
Another summer went by, and Jonathan David surprisingly stayed put at LOSC Lille despite yet another prolific season in which he notched 26 goals for the Ligue 1 side. The Canadian striker did have suitors from the Premier League and would have made the move had it not been for some factors that prevented it.
Lille might have asked for a sizeable fee, which may not have resonated well with suitors, considering David is already into the final year of his deal. With teams reluctant to pay beyond a cut-price fee, the chances of the 24-year-old Ligue 1 star leaving diminished, although now the future is in his own hands.
Lille are trying hard to sign the striker to a new deal. David reportedly indicated that he was willing to extend earlier, but it appears his stance may have changed. The 24-year-old Ligue 1 star is keen on exploring the market options for him should he leave on a free transfer before deciding on whether to commit to his current side.
Arsenal have been linked recently, as they are keen on landing a new striker. Viktor Gyokeres remains a target, although the prospect of signing a prolific star like David would appeal to the north London side. In any case, Fabrizio Romano insists that David is unlikely to sign a new contract at Lille as things stand, as he wants to weigh up his options beforehand.
“Another striker linked with Arsenal from time to time has been Jonathan David, who has also spoken recently about his future,” Romano said in his Daily Briefing.
“Jonathan David has spoken about being open to signing a new contract with Lille, but I don’t think it’s likely from what I know.”
“The situation for his future his more open than limited to new Lille deal. He’s going to explore several options before deciding anything, so I think there are a few long months ahead to consider all opportunities, and nothing specific with other clubs to mention yet.”
David will find the right suitors
A free agent is always an exciting prospect for any side, especially in this day and age of FFP and PSR. A free agent of his profile would ensure a big battle brewing in the background, and the striker would have a choice of clubs to decide on. Arsenal, Tottenham, and Newcastle United are linked with a move, and the Canadian might prefer a Champions League-playing side.
Aston Villa are also keen on the Canadian, which shows he will have many clubs chasing his signature once he becomes a free agent. Alternatively, these teams can also approach Lille with a knocked-down price in January, and at that stage, the French side might forcibly give up as that will represent a last chance to recoup something for the striker.
