According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, Jonathan David now wants to leave Lille, with Arsenal and Newcastle interested in signing him.
What’s the story?
Well, it was the Mirror who revealed that Arsenal are interested in signing the Canadian, who has been on fire so far this season.
In the Mirror‘s report, it was also said that Newcastle are keen to sign David, who has now made a big decision about his future.
Plettenberg believes the 22-year-old has decided to leave Lille, although he won’t come cheap.
It is said that Lille – who did not include a release clause in David’s contract – are hoping to receive a sum in the region of €45m – €55m (£38m – £46m) for their talisman.
Interestingly, Plettenberg states that David will be too expensive for Bundesliga clubs, so the Premier League could well be his next destination.
So far this season, the Lille No.9 has scored 16 goals in 35 appearances.
Arsenal hold advantage over Newcastle
Crucially, Plettenberg reveals that David wants to join a side playing in the Champions League.
In that respect, Arsenal hold an advantage over Newcastle, as they’re actually in with a chance of finishing in the top four, whereas Newcastle are not.
As things stand, the Gunners sit sixth in the Premier League, two points off Manchester United in fourth – albeit with three games in hand.
As long as Mikel Arteta’s side win those games and maintain some consistency, they should beat the Red Devils and West Ham to Champions League qualification.
If Newcastle don’t want to miss out this summer, they may need to persuade David to ignore the Champions League with a huge salary offer.
Keep an eye on this saga, as this is quite a big development.
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