Barcelona face fresh competition from surprise Premier League club for 24-year-old star: Reports
Barcelona will face competition from Newcastle United for the services of Jonathan David, according to Football Insider. The Catalan giants are linked with a move for the striker, whose contract with Lille expires at the end of this season.
The Ligue 1 club are willing to offload David at the turn of the year to avoid losing him for free next summer. But the 24-year-old plans to explore his options as a free agent in 2025.
David has been in fine form for Lille lately and has admirers at multiple clubs across the continent. The Canadian has registered 13 goals from 21 games across competitions for the French giants this season.
Barcelona are pleased with his efforts and remain hot on his heels. They are laying down succession plans for Robert Lewandowski, who is in the twilight of his career.
The Polish striker has plundered in 22 goals from 20 games across competitions this campaign. However, Lewandowski will turn 37 next summer and the LaLiga giants have to consider options for the future.
Barcelona's financial situation means that they have to seek cut-prised deals in the market at the moment. David's contract situation makes him a lucrative option for the Blaugrana.
However, Newcastle United also have their eyes on the Canadian as they seek a replacement for Callum Wilson. The Englishman, a backup for Alexander Isak at St. James' Park, will see his contract expire at the end of this season. The Magpies want David to take his place.
How many goals have Barcelona scored this season?
Barcelona have scored goals galore under Hansi Flick this season. The German manager took over the reins at Camp Nou in the summer, replacing Xavi.
The Catalan giants have only failed to find the back of the net in one game - the 1-0 defeat against Real Sociedad - this season. Barca have scored 43 goals in 15 games in the league so far, and have conceded 16.
Barcelona are leading the LaLiga title race with 34 points from 15 matches, but third-placed Real Madrid are four points behind with two games on hand. Hansi Flick's team succumbed to their third defeat in the league on Saturday, November 30, against Las Palmas.
The league leaders have also managed 18 goals in five Champions League matches. Barcelona are third in the premier European competition with four wins and a solitary defeat.