West Ham back on high alert as price revealed for Ligue 1 goal machine
Lille have reportedly named their price for in-form forward Jonathan David and the race to sign him looks certain to gather pace.
The 21-year-old is currently in his second season with the French champions. And he is enjoying a stellar campaign, with 10 league goals from 11 starts and 14 appearances. The Canada international has also found the net once in the Champions League and many clubs have taken note.
The Hammers were linked last summer as David Moyes’ search for a striker continued. But he remained with Les Dogues despite the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool also showing an interest.
The Gunners appeared to be in pole position after David admitted he dreamt of a move to the Emirates. However, Newcastle have now entered the picture after their Saudi-backed takeover.
West Ham are still in the market for a new front man, with Braga forward Vitor Oliveira linked to the London Stadium. But they are also thought to have reignited their interest in David.
With prices skyrocketing in recent years, the prolific hitman’s value could have been out of West Ham’s reach. However, The Guardian are suggesting the North American could be available for around £25m.
That is due to Lille’s financial struggles and the fact they need to raise funds. That would not be an issue for the East End outfit and it will come down to the player’s preference.
Title-winner David a versatile asset
Lille managed to break Paris Saint-Germain’s dominance of the French top flight with an unexpected triumph last term. David played his part after a slow beginning to his career with the club.
The New York-born ace scored just twice in his first 25 games for Lille. But he has notched 21 times in 34 league games this year and helped his side beat PSG to the title by a single point.
He can play as a central striker or operate wide in a front three. That might suit Moyes, with Antonio certain to maintain his spot in the side.
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Other clubs will certainly enter the equation. But it appears as though David’s priority is playing time.
He could have moved to the Premier League in the summer of 2020 but explained his reasons for choosing Lille.
He told France Bleu Nord: “Everyone knows the Premier League is a high-quality league. But my choice was dictated by the fact that above all, I wanted to be sure of playing.
“My choice was made quite early. But I understand that it took a little while to finalise between the two clubs.”
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