Jonathan David inists he will make a ‘wise’ decision when choosing his next club this summer, with the striker set to leave Lille at the end of the season. The Canadian frontman is likely to spark a transfer scramble should he decide not to sign a new deal at the Ligue 1 club when his current contract expires at the end of June.
The 25-year-old would be available on a free transfer, with a host of clubs vying for his signature. Newcastle United have sent scouts to watch the striker this season and have long held an interest, while the likes of Liverpool, Barcelona, Tottenham and Manchester United have all been linked.
David admits he is not sure what the future holds, but in comments which will no doubt appeal to the work ethic Eddie Howe demands for his players, he revealed that no matter where is goes, he knows he will have to work hard to earn a place in the side. David was on target for Canada in the 2-1 win over the United States on Sunday, and played a key role in Tani Oluwaseyi’s opener. He has scored 23 goals in 41 appearances for Lille this season – including nine in the Champions League – but knows he must maintain those high standards.
“Obviously, with this summer going on, I am not sure if I am staying or going. But if I do end up going, I have to push myself at the very highest level,” he told Golazo America.
“When you play for a big club, your position is never guaranteed and you need to fight. I am never guaranteed anywhere I go to start every game and play every game, I have to perform. I am willing to fight. I know it’s an important year. It is a big decision. I will make a wise decision.”
United could be looking for extra striker options this summer, especially if Callum Wilson leaves. The United No 9’s contract expires at the end of the season, with no decision made as yet on his future. David can play across the front line and would offer Newcastle more versatility, with Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon also able to play in several positions.
Earlier this year, David told the It’s Called Soccer Podcast: “Every league has their differences. I think the Premier League is a lot faster and more physical than all the other leagues.
“I grew up watching a lot of La Liga. I wouldn’t say that would be my preferred league, but it’s a league I enjoyed watching more so [than others]. One day, I would like to play there. But will that happen? I don’t know. I’m not opposed to anything. We’ll see where the future takes us.”
