Newcastle United are among several clubs to shown interest in Sven Botman’s former teammate.
Jonathan David has confirmed he will leave Lille when his contract expires at the end of June.
David has scored 109 goals in 231 appearances for the French club, making him one of the most sought-after free agents in world football. As reported by NewcastleWorld in January, Newcastle United were at one stage confident of striking a deal but several other clubs have since entered the running.
Jonathan David confirms Lille departure - Newcastle United star replies
“I wanted to tell you myself that after so many years at the club, it’s time to say goodbye,” David said in a video message on social media. “I’ve had five wonderful seasons here. I know that it hasn’t always been easy but I hope that with my goals and celebrations, that I’ve managed to bring you some joy.
“Notably the Ligue 1 title and the Trophee des Champions and I think that with these two trophies together, we have brought a lot of pleasure and joy.
“I would like to thank all of my teammates, all the coaches, staff, technical and medical teams, the managers and everyone that I have met over the months at the club. Thank you very much for everything you have brought me over these years, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
“Finally to the supporters, I know I didn’t have the easiest start but you have always supported me through all the difficult times and for that I truly hold you in my heart and thank you infinitely for all the beautiful moments we have shared. All the time you have been behind me and behind the team, for encouraging us and allowing us to have the seasons like we have had.”
Newcastle United star Sven Botman, who played alongside the Canadian for two years before moving to St James’ Park for £35million in 2022, responded by saying “Player” with a love-heart emoji.
Will Newcastle United sign a striker this summer?
While a move for David would undoubtedly get the seal of approval from everyone on Tyneside, it is unlikely the player would accept being second choice striker.
Alexander Isak will be staying at Newcastle next season, unless a club tables an astronomical offer. However, uncertainty surrounds Callum Wilson’s future with the 33-year-old out of contract on June 30.
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Should Wilson leave then targeting a striker will likely depend on how Eddie Howe views the progress of Will Osula. The 21-year-old joined from Sheffield United last summer but has had to stay patient having been restricted to just three starts and 14 substitute appearances.
“Will Osula is developing really, really well here and like a lot of players that we sign at the football club, certainly young players, the likes of Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento, etc, they have to be patient,” JasonTindall said last month. “Will's getting a lot of work into him on the training ground and we're all confident that when Will's moment and his opportunities come, then he'll take them.
"He's developed really well, showing really, really good signs of becoming a top player. And as I say, when you're competing for a place alongside Alex Isak, it's not easy - one of the best strikers in Europe right now. He has to be patient, as I said, like everybody else. And when his opportunity comes, I'm sure he'll take it."
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