Jonathan David has confirmed he will leave Lille this summer, with Arsenal among the clubs keeping close watch as the striker weighs up his next move.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - JANUARY 21: Jonathan David of LOSC Lille during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Liverpool FC and LOSC Lille at Anfield on January 21, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Jonathan David has confirmed his departure from Lille, bringing an end to a four-year spell in Ligue 1 that has seen the Canadian striker consistently linked with a move to the Premier League, and more recently with Arsenal.
David, 25, made the announcement via social media on Wednesday, stating his intention to leave at the end of the current campaign. “It’s time for a new chapter,” he wrote, after a season in which he scored 16 goals and registered 5 assists in 31 appearances in Ligue 1 and 25 goals, with 12 assists, in 48 games across all competitions.
David’s decision will trigger renewed interest across Europe, with Arsenal, West Ham United and Barcelona all previously monitoring the situation.
Arsenal, who were linked strongly with the striker two months ago, had reportedly been waiting until the arrival of new sporting director Andrea Berta before advancing discussions. Berta has since been appointed, though no formal offer has yet been lodged.
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS - JUNE 25: Jonathan David of Canada celebrates after scoring the team's first goal during the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024 between Peru and Canada at Children's Mercy Park on June 25, 2024 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images
David is now expected to become one of the most sought-after free agents this summer. West Ham are reported to have already submitted a financial proposal worth €20 million in combined agent fees, salary and bonuses, while Barcelona remain interested but face limitations due to their financial restrictions.
Arsenal’s interest in David predates the current window. Known for his intelligent movement, pressing work and composure in front of goal, he has long fit the profile sought by Mikel Arteta and the club as they look to reshape the forward line.
For David, whose career in France has included a Ligue 1 title in 2021 and 109 goals in all competitions for Lille (231 games), a move to England appears increasingly likely.
Whether Arsenal decide to act on long-standing admiration or allow other clubs to take the lead may be decided in the coming weeks.
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