Jonathan David is set to move to the Serie A.Jonathan David is set to move to the Serie A.
Jonathan David is set to move to the Serie A. | Getty Images
Napoli are expected to sign Manchester City free agent Kevin De Bruyne and then move for a striker linked with Arsenal and Spurs.
Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are set to see transfer interest in Lille striker Jonathan David hijacked by Serie A Champions Napoli this summer as the Italian outfit prepares for a statement summer of business.
The 25-year-old is set to become a free agent when he leaves Lille this summer after five years with the Ligue 1 side. David is not thought to have had a shortage of suitors, having scored 25 goals in all competitions this term.
The forward was seemingly destined for a move to the Premier League. He is yet to play in the UK thus far in his career, only previously turning out for Gent in Belgium before making the short move to Lille.
Napoli move for Spurs and Arsenal transfer hijack
David’s agent was known to have attended a match at West Ham earlier this season but, in recent weeks, it was Arsenal who had been touted as frontrunners to complete the deal. That was according to GiveMeSport earlier this month with RMC Sport previously naming Spurs and Chelsea as interested parties, alongside West Ham.
The talisman was also linked with Ligue 1 rivals Marseille, but it now appears as if Napoli are going to win the race. Italian football journalist Guillaume MP took to social media platform X to claim that David could be the second player to arrive at Napoli this summer after Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne.
He wrote: “Napoli have prepared a budget of €200 million for the upcoming window, as well as a salary budget in surplus of €120 million. De Bruyne should be the first coup on a three-year contract and €8 million salary, along with a €10 million signing bonus. The club is waiting for a response from Jonathan David on a four-year contract and €6 million salary. Kang-in Lee is in ‘pole position’ to reinforce midfield with Zhegrova also on the list.”
Jonathan David confirms Lille exit
Taking to social media earlier this month David confirmed his imminent departure from Lille. He said: “I wanted to tell you myself that after so many years at the club, it’s time to say goodbye. 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.”
In other news, Arsenal show 'interest' in bargain attacker and line up relegated Martin Odegaard back-up.
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