Jonathan David
Newcastle United have been put on transfer alert after confirmation that Lille's Jonathan David will be available on a free this summer
Lille striker Jonathan David has announced that he will leave the French club amid transfer links with Newcastle United.
The 25-year-old will become a free agent when his contract at Lille expires this summer. David has been the subject of intense transfer speculation with reports linking him with the Magpies, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal, among others.
The striker has been a prolific goalscorer since arriving in France from Gent in 2020. The Canadian international has scored 109 goals in just 231 appearances - bagging an eye-catching 25 this season alone.
David has now announced his intention to leave the Ligue 1 club in the upcoming transfer window. The forward shared a heartfelt video on his social media profiles, revealing his intention to embrace a fresh challenge.
"I wanted to tell you myself that after so many years at the club, it's finally time to say goodbye," he said. "I've had five wonderful seasons here, and I know it hasn't always been easy, but I hope that with my goals and my celebrations, I have managed to bring you some joy.
"Notably, the French Championship and the League championship trophy. I think that with these two trophies, we have brought a lot of pleasure and joy. "I would like to thank all of my teammates, all the coaches, the staff, the medical teams, and the managers.
"Everyone I have met and spent months with at the club, thank you very much for everything you have given me personally over the years. "Thank you from the bottom of my heart. "
David's emotional post has received a message from Newcastle centre-back Sven Botman on Instagram. The Dutchman commented: "Player", followed by a red love heart emoji.
While it remains up in the air which club might secure David's signature, the forward has signalled he is setting sights on a team competing at the pinnacle of the sport, hinting that Newcastle may need to secure Champions League qualification to sign him.
Speaking to Golazo America, he said., "Obviously, with this summer going on, I am not sure if I am staying or going," before noting, "But if I do end up going, I have to push myself at the very highest level.
"When you play for a big club, your position [in the team] is never guaranteed and you need to fight. I am never guaranteed anywhere I go to start every game and play every game - I have to perform."
"I am willing to fight. I know it's an important year. It is a big decision. I will make a wise decision."
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