CaughtOffside today have the latest update on Jonathan David, the striker eternally linked to major moves without ever actually completing them.
Chelsea are among the sides who are always apparently in the mix for the Lille attacker, who scores so consistently in Ligue 1 that teams are always interested, but none have yet taken the plunge.
There is one reason that this could all change now – his expiring contract. After all these years of rumours, there’s something ironic that his fee will end up being zero.
More Stories about Jonathan David
Chelsea in a team huddle ahead of EFL Cup game. (Photo by Ed Sykes/Getty Images)
Jonathan David celebrates Champions League win with Lille. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
A flag waves at Stamford Bridge by night.
Tottenham Man U, Newcastle and West Ham are linked, as well as Chelsea. And there’s a crucial piece of information from the sources in this piece – David’s “preference is leaning towards a top Premier League move.”
The Canada international clearly thinks the time is right to come to the world’s biggest league, and if we don’t give him a chance, someone else will.
Free contract move makes deal possible – but difficult
Jonathan David playing for Canada.
Jonathan David playing for Canada. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)
As for Chelsea’s interest, there is no doubt David will be considered. He’s 25, so older than the players we’re targeting under this new regime, but as a free transfer they’re willing to bend their rules, as we saw with Tosin Adarabioyo last year.
What we’re really looking for is a backup to Nicolas Jackson with an eye for goal – and David certainly has that. He’s got 31 goal contributions this season alone, and has scored consistently throughout his career. As a poacher to keep on the bench or play in cup games, you could do a lot worse.
The only question is if the massive wage demands he’s likely to have, given it will be a free transfer move, will rule him out from our wage structure. Given he wouldn’t be a guaranteed starter, there’s only so far we can go in terms of salary.