Timothy Weah has told CBS that Jonathan David has enjoyed a prolific season so far as the reported Arsenal transfer target ‘always’ knows where to be inside the area for LOSC Lille.
David has produced a prolific campaign for the Ligue 1 champions this term after hitting 16 goals in 34 games. He made his latest outing for Les Dogues in the Champions League last 16 first-leg against Chelsea on Tuesday, but the 22-year-old could not help avoid a 2-0 loss.
The Canada international had struck once in each of his previous three UEFA games against Sevilla, RB Salzburg and Wolfsburg. His haul also includes 12 French top-flight efforts – only Monaco marksman Wissam Ben Yedder has fired home more with 14 in one fewer outings.
Lille struggled to provide David with the service he needed to beat Chelsea goalie Edouard Mendy at Stamford Bridge. But the New York-born forward’s attempts so far this term have already caught the Blues’ London rival’s attention as the Gunners plan their future attack.
Premier League interests David amid Arsenal transfer interest
Arsenal explored signing David from Lille in the January transfer sales to hand Mikel Arteta a new striker. Football.london also noted technical director Edu met his agent in December to discuss the switch. But The Athletic always suspected a summer move was more likely.
The Gunners faced a €55m (£46m) fee to land the 27-cap attacker in the winter market, per Jeunes Footeux. But David has since boosted Arsenal’s pursuit after the Lille star stated the Premier League ‘obviously’ appeals as a destination. A handy update for the next window.
Now, David’s teammate, Weah, has hinted at what makes the 5 ft 10 forward so strong in front of goal. Another handy boost for Arteta and Edu as they explore which strikers may hit the market and would fit the vision and style they are striving for at the Emirates Stadium.
“Jonathan is our fox in the box and a top striker,” Weah said. “I love playing with Jonathan. He is always in the right place at the right time, and his confidence is super high right now.
“You can see him getting the goals here and he is also Canada’s main guy. I am happy for him; he is one of my best friends on the team and I love seeing him succeed.”
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