Arsenal set to battle Barcelona for 24-year-old Ligue 1 star: Reports
According to a report by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo (via Football365), Arsenal have joined Barcelona in the pursuit of Lille forward Jonathan David. Both clubs, along with Newcastle, Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan, are reportedly keen on signing the Canadian international.
Lille's David is currently one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe. The 24-year-old has proven to be a prolific striker in the last couple of seasons. Since joining the French side in 2020 from Gent, David has registered 92 goals and 20 assists in 196 appearances.
He contributed 13 goals and five assists in the 2020-21 season as Lille won the Ligue 1. The Canadian has also been in fine form this campaign, scoring eight times and providing two assists, including the winner against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on October 10.
David has been continuously linked with a move away from Lille in the past, but a move failed to materialize. However, with his contract set to expire next summer and his goal return still looking impressive, he is now on the radar of several top clubs in Europe.
Arsenal have had their eyes on David for a while but have not shown keen interest in him until now. The Gunners are looking to fortify their attacking department and the Canada star is one player on their list.
Barcelona, meanwhile, needs a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Despite his impressive return of 12 goals and two assists in 11 games this term, the Poland international is nearing the end of his career at 36.
Also, due to their financial struggles, the LaLiga giants have targeted free-agent players recently and David fits the shoe if he eventually becomes available on a free transfer.
As per Transfermarkt, Jonathan David is currently valued at €45 million. Thus, if a contract renewal fails to happen in the coming months, Lille might be forced to accept offers for him rather than lose him for free.
Arsenal interested in signing Napoli goalkeeper - Reports
Arsenal are said to be considering a move for Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret as they continue to search for a long-term backup for first-choice goalkeeper David Raya.
After impressing while on loan from Brentford last term, the Spanish goalkeeper made a permanent move to Arsenal this summer. Raya displaced Aaron Ramsdale as first-choice goalkeeper at the Emirates which forced the Englishman to join Southampton.
Brazilian shot-stopper Neto was brought in as a backup to Raya on loan. However, the Gunners are keen for a long-term backup goalkeeper and have now set their eyes on Meret whose contract will expire next summer.