Barcelona target sets wage demands as Liverpool and Arsenal keep tabs - Reports
Barcelona and Arsenal target Jonathan David reportedly wants €6m in wages to make the move next summer, according to journalist Matteo Moretto. The Canadian striker is in the final year of his contract with Lille and hasn't signed a new deal yet.
David enjoyed a stunning 2023-24 campaign with the Ligue 1 club, scoring 26 goals and setting up nine more from 47 games across all competitions. The 24-year-old has continued that form this season, registering eight goals and two assists from 14 games across all competitions.
His efforts have already turned heads at Camp Nou. Barcelona are laying down succession plans for Robert Lewandowski, who will turn 37 next summer. While the Pole has been in sizzling form so far, the Catalans need to prepare for the future and have their eyes on David.
However, the LaLiga giants are not the only interested party in the race. Arsenal and Liverpool are also keeping the player under close watch. The Gunners failed in their efforts to sign a new No. 9 this summer.
The north London side are expected to push for an upgrade on Gabriel Jesus in 2025 and have identified David as an option. The player is not short of suitors though, with AC Milan, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and Inter Milan apparently hot on his heels as well.
David's contract situation makes him an enticing prospect for Barcelona, with the club's financial woes well documented. However, the player's exorbitant wage demands could be a deal breaker for the Catalans. Arsenal, though, won't have any problem matching his salary expectations.
Would Jonathan David prefer a move to Barcelona over Arsenal?
Jonathan David has already shown that he could be a great fit for both Arsenal and Barcelona. The Gunners are on the rise under Mikel Arteta and have finished second in the Premier League in the past two seasons.
The north London side are playing free-flowing attacking football and someone like David could take them to another level. The player could be tempted to join the Premier League side and propel them to glory.
However, a recent report from Mundo Deportivo has stated that the Canadian dreams of joining the Catalans. The Spanish giants are embarking on a new journey under Hansi Flick, who has taken very little time to implement his tactics at Camp Nou.
Barcelona are leading the LaLiga title race after nine games, with eight wins to their name. Should they manage to get their finances in order, the Catalans could pip Arsenal to David's services.