Jonathan David #10 of Canada looks on ahead of playing Ukraine in their Canadian Shield Tournament match at the BMO Field on June 7, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images)placeholder image
Jonathan David #10 of Canada looks on ahead of playing Ukraine in their Canadian Shield Tournament match at the BMO Field on June 7, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Newcastle United won’t be signing the free agent striker, despite showing interest earlier this year.
Jonathan David, one of the most sought-after free agents in world football, has reportedly decided on his next club.
NewcastleWorld reported in January that Newcastle United were keeping tabs on the Canadian ahead of his contract expiring at Lille on June 30. Confirmation of his exit then arrived in mid-May, when the striker himself announced his intention to pursue a fresh challenge.
David’s record of 109 goals in 232 appearances for the Ligue 1 club has ranked him among the most prolific strikers in the world. As a result, the 25-year-old hasn’t been short of interest.
Jonathan David decides on his next club
David started his professional career in Belgium with Gent before moving to France. And Italy appears to be his next step with Juventus confident of beating Napoli to his signature.
According to Gazetta dello Sport, David has agreed a yearly salary of £5million, with a full agreement now subject to agent fees.
When quizzed about his future earlier this month, David told The Athletic: “I want a club with ambition that wants to do something. “Obviously, I would love to fight for titles, to win titles. A team that’s competitive, that has ambition, really, with a good sporting project.”
He was also asked specifically about Juventus and the pressure of playing for such a renowned club.
“I think anywhere you go, there’s always pressure to perform every week, there is the pressure to keep your spot, pressure from the supporters, because obviously you have to win every game,” David replied. “There is always pressure anywhere you go.”
Newcastle United set to lose Callum Wilson
Newcastle are expected to lose a striker of their own on Tuesday with Callum Wilson’s contract due to expire.
The 33-year-old has scored 49 goals in 130 appearances since joining from AFC Bournemouth in 2020 for £20million but endured a frustrating 2024-25 season with injuries, which restricted him to just three starts.
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His only goal came in the FA Cup fourth round win away to Birmingham City, while his last Premier League goal was over a year ago in May 2024.
Wilson’s limited appearances meant he did not automatically trigger a one-year extension. Newcastle also passed up the option, instead entering talks over an incentive-based contract.
Without Wilson, Eddie Howe’s side lack a notable back-up to Alexander Isak. Will Osula joined from Sheffield United last summer but failed to make a single start in the Premier League. It is part of the reason why Newcastle showed interest in David, however his wages coupled with the fact he’d be viewed as second choice to Isak were two major stumbling blocks.
Rather than sign an out-of-striker, Howe is looking for someone who offers versatility, which had led him to Brighton and Hove Albion forward Joao Pedro. However the Brazilian, capable of playing up front or out wide, has agreed to join Chelsea.
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