Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have reportedly entered the race alongside Barcelona to sign Lille forward Jonathan David, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season. The Canadian international is among the most sought-after forwards in Europe, thanks to his impressive goal-scoring exploits.
David, 23, has already netted 17 goals in 23 appearances this season, bringing his tally to 101 goals for Lille since joining the French club in 2020. His clinical finishing has reportedly drawn Arsenal’s attention, with Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo linking the Gunners to a potential move for the forward.
Arsenal’s need for a prolific striker has become increasingly urgent as they chase their first Premier League title since the 2003-04 “Invincibles” season. Despite strong performances from Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz, who lead the club’s scoring charts with five goals each, the Gunners lack a consistent out-and-out goal-scorer.
READ MORE: Arsenal looking to land the signing of Manchester United man in January
The club’s attacking struggles were highlighted during their frustrating 1-1 draw at Fulham, where Bukayo Saka’s late potential winner was disallowed by VAR. William Saliba had earlier canceled out Raul Jimenez’s opener, but Arsenal failed to find a decisive breakthrough at Craven Cottage. The draw leaves Mikel Arteta’s side six points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand.
Jonathan David
Jonathan David (Image credit: Getty Images)
David’s availability could tempt Arsenal into making a move during the January transfer window as they seek to close the gap on Liverpool. The Gunners have been linked with several high-profile strikers in recent windows, including Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, Victor Osimhen, and Benjamin Šeško.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW.ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Former Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski recently shared his thoughts on the club’s attacking dilemma, particularly on the deployment of Kai Havertz. Speaking to talkSPORT, Podolski suggested that Havertz might be better suited to a playmaking role behind a traditional striker rather than as a No. 9.
“I don’t know if when he was younger his position was a proper number nine, but for me, he’s not a classic number nine striker,” Podolski said. “When you put Kai behind a good striker, he has more potential. Let’s see—it’s only my view from the outside.”
Podolski expressed optimism about Arsenal’s trajectory, adding, “Let’s cross our fingers that this season will be good. We want something at the end—a Premier League title or success in Europe. The club is building something great with a good structure and atmosphere.”
NEXT ARTICLE: Jorginho reveals what Arsenal must do after Fulham draw