Lille striker Jonathan David will leave the French club on a free transfer when his contract expires next month, giving Manchester United the opportunity to sign him on the cheap
Manchester United have the chance to sign Jonathan David on a free transfer this summer after he confirmed that he's leaving Lille. David, 25, won't sign a new contract with the French club and move on to pastures new when his current deal expires on June 30.
The Canadian striker has been linked with United alongside a host of European giants for many years, having impressed for Lille ever since his move from Gent in 2020. David lifted the Ligue 1 title in his first season and has scored 109 goals in 231 games for Les Dogues, putting him third in the club's all-time goalscorer charts.
That kind of output would be ideal for United, who've prioritised signing a striker in the summer transfer window. The Red Devils want an upgrade on Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who've scored a combined 17 goals this season compared to David's 25.
The 25-year-old has also chipped in with 12 assists, as Lille head into the final day on Saturday battling for fourth place which would earn them a spot in the Europa League. But if they qualify, David won't be a part of it.
"I wanted to tell you myself that after so many years at the club, it's time for me to say goodbye," he said in a video posted on Instagram. "I've spent five wonderful seasons here, I know it hasn't always been easy, but I hope that with my goals and celebrations, I've managed to bring you some joy, especially with the French championship title and the Champions Trophy."
Thanking his team-mates, David added: "I know I didn't have the easiest start, but you've always been behind me, you've supported me through the tough times, and for that, I'll keep you in my heart."
The Canada international has most recently been linked with Napoli as well as Barcelona and Newcastle. David isn't the only striker on United's radar either, with Liam Delap understood to be their No.1 target and available for £30million following Ipswich's relegation.
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But the fact that United wouldn't have to pay a fee for David could sway them. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made it clear the Red Devils are in a precarious financial position which makes winning the Europa League final against Tottenham next Wednesday even more important, as it'd guarantee them a place in next season's Champions League which is worth roughly £100m.