Arsenal are considering an approach to bring Lille striker Jonathan David to the Premier League ahead of the 2023/24 season, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Long-term admirers
In Gabriel Jesus’s absence, Mikel Arteta was mostly playing Eddie Nketiah up top before the arrival of Leandro Trossard, but the boss could still do with securing another senior attacking reinforcement during the upcoming summer window.
TEAMtalk claim that the Gunners are long-term admirers of the 23-year-old with sporting director Edu having had him firmly on his radar for the past three years.
During an interview in December, the Canadian forward admitted that he could see himself making the transition to the top flight at some point in the near future. He said:
“In England, when I watch the matches, everything is full each time. As a player, it motivates you even more.
“I don't know, I think it's possible, very possible. I don't know if I can find myself anywhere other than the Premier League. It could well be the Premier League. It's a very nice atmosphere.”
The Latest: Arsenal monitoring David
According to Spanish reports (via CaughtOffside), Arsenal are ‘looking at’ and ‘planning a summer transfer window move’ for David.
The Canada international would reportedly give the Gunners a ‘different dimension’ in attack and it sounds like the hierarchy are willing to do whatever it takes to secure their target.
Edu could be willing to ‘part ways’ with the promising young duo of Nketiah and Folarin Balogun in order to fund the deal and make space for a new arrival in the final third.
The Verdict: Absolute bargain
Lille are expected to require a fee of approximately €50m (£44m) to sanction David’s sale and Arsenal would be getting an absolute bargain should they successfully be able to acquire his services for that price in the summer.
The Adidas-sponsored talisman has been on fire so far this season, scoring 19 goals and providing four assists in 26 Ligue 1 appearances, where he’s currently averaging 3.2 shots per game.
The Brooklyn native would be bringing excellent flexibility to the squad at the Emirates Stadium having operated in five various positions since the start of his career, including out wide on both the left and right flanks alongside his natural role.
David has been dubbed a ‘shining light’ at Lille by journalist Josh Bunting and a 'phenomenon' by Belgian manager Hein Vanhaezebrouck - there’s no question that the two-footed ace would have a hugely positive impact should he make the switch to N7.