"It's a dream to play there" - Lille star Jonathan David opens up amid Barcelona transfer links
In-demand Lille striker Jonathan David has made a big admission amid interest from Barcelona. The Canada international has revealed that he has been a fan of the Catalan giants since childhood.
David has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in Europe in recent months. His exploits for Lille coupled with his contract situation at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy has seen him attract interest from clubs from across Europe.
David's current deal with Les Dogues expires next summer which means he would be available for nothing in six months' time. An exit from Lille on a bargain fee could also well be on the cards.
Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal and Bayern Munich have been heavily linked with the 24-year-old's signature. Barcelona have also been credited with interest in the striker and they will feel that they will have an edge over David's other suitors because of his recent comments.
David has insisted that it would be his dream come true if he could play for the Spanish giants he grew up supporting. The Lille striker said, as quoted by Barca Universal on X (formerly Twitter):
"Barcelona is the team I have supported since childhood. When you grow up and support a team, it's a dream to play there."
David has been one of the most consistent and efficient attackers in Ligue 1 since his reported €30 million move to Lille in 2020. The former Gent attacker has so far scored 97 goals and produced 20 assists in 202 appearances for the French giants.
The Canadian has been on fire this season with 13 goals and two assists in 19 appearances. It has been claimed that Barca view David as the long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski who is 36 years of age now.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick gives green signal for the sale of Bayern Munich target: Reports
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has reportedly given the green light for Ronald Araujo's sale amid interest from Bayern Munich. As reported by Spanish outlet El Nacional, the Uruguay international has already been approached by the Bavarian giants.
Bayern Munich have been heavily interested in Araujo for a while now but Barca did not want to part ways with their best defender. However, they have fared pretty well in the absence of the 25-year-old this campaign.
With Araujo out with a hamstring injury, youngster Pau Cubarsi and veteran Inigo Martinez have formed a formidable partnership at the back. It has been claimed that Barcelona are now considering selling Araujo should they receive a lucrative fee.
Araujo has made 150 appearances for the Spanish giants till date, helping the club win three trophies. It is understood that the Blaugrana will demand at least €50 million for the Uruguayan who is regarded as one of the finest in his position.