Report: Three Way Battle For Coveted “Prolific” Free Agent | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Lille Striker as Summer Transfer Target

Liverpool are exploring the possibility of signing Jonathan David in the upcoming summer transfer window as they look to strengthen their attacking options under incoming manager Arne Slot. The Reds, however, are set to face stiff competition for the Lille forward, with multiple European clubs also keen on securing his signature.

While Liverpool’s immediate priority remains securing new deals for Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, preparations for next season are well underway. With concerns over Darwin Nunez’s consistency, the club are reportedly open to parting ways with the Uruguayan and bringing in a more clinical striker.

Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak have been on Liverpool’s radar, but David has now emerged as a serious candidate.

Jonathan David’s Form Makes Him a Coveted Asset

According to reports from TuttoJuve, Liverpool are one of several clubs closely monitoring the progress of the Canada international. The 25-year-old has developed into one of the most prolific strikers in European football, boasting impressive numbers in Ligue 1 and on the continental stage.

David has netted 23 goals and provided 10 assists in 40 appearances for Lille this season, further enhancing his reputation as a well-rounded attacker. His consistency was evident in the 2023-24 campaign as well, where he scored 26 goals in 47 matches while also registering eight assists.

Jocelyn Gourvennec, David’s former Lille manager, has previously praised his relentless work rate, stating on Sky Sports in January 2025: “He hits 12 kilometres every game and has high-intensity efforts.” The striker himself has spoken highly of Liverpool, having faced them at Anfield in the Champions League earlier this year. After the match, he remarked: “Very good team. I think they might be the best team in the world at the moment.”

Intense Competition for David’s Signature

David’s contract with Lille is set to expire at the end of the season, making him one of the most sought-after free agents in European football. Liverpool are naturally interested in capitalising on this opportunity, but they are not alone in their pursuit.

Juventus are reportedly considering the Canadian forward as a replacement for Dusan Vlahovic, who is attracting interest from Arsenal and Manchester United. Intriguingly, United are also eyeing David as a potential addition to their attacking ranks. Meanwhile, West Ham United and Inter Milan are monitoring the situation, aware that David has no intention of extending his stay at Lille.

Liverpool’s Transfer Plans Beyond David

In addition to their interest in David, Liverpool are assessing other key positions in the squad. Defender Ibrahima Konaté remains a subject of speculation, with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain both linked with a move for the French centre-back. Liverpool are reportedly open to selling Konaté for a fee in the region of €60 million (£50.6m, $65.5m), while already identifying potential replacements.

Furthermore, the Reds have been linked with former Manchester City striker Julián Álvarez, who moved to Atlético Madrid last summer. Reports suggest that Liverpool are preparing a club-record bid to bring him back to the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have emerged as a potential destination for Darwin Núñez. Mikel Arteta’s side are in search of a new striker, and the Gunners manager is believed to be an admirer of the Uruguayan forward.

This radar chart provides a statistical breakdown of Jonathan David’s performance over the last 365 days, comparing him to other forwards. The metrics are divided into three categories: Attacking (blue), Possession (beige), and Defending (red).

Attacking Performance

David’s attacking metrics indicate that he is a well-rounded forward. His non-penalty expected goals (npxG) ranks in the 75th percentile, while his non-penalty goals are in the 70th percentile, showing he is a reliable goal threat. His expected assisted goals (xAG) percentile (71) and assists (56) suggest he contributes creatively in addition to scoring. His shot-creating actions (64) highlight his ability to generate goal-scoring opportunities.

Possession Play

David also excels in possession-based metrics, which highlight his ability to retain and progress the ball. His pass completion rate (99th percentile) is exceptional, suggesting strong efficiency in distribution. He ranks highly for progressive passes (79th percentile) and progressive carries (40th percentile), showing a willingness to advance play. Additionally, his successful take-ons (66th percentile) and touches (73rd percentile) indicate that he is actively involved in build-up play.

Defensive Contributions

Although attacking players typically contribute less defensively, David shows a mixed defensive profile. His tackles and interceptions (42nd percentile) and blocks (7th percentile) suggest he is not particularly aggressive in pressing. However, his percentage of dribblers tackled (63rd percentile) and aerial duels won (61st percentile) indicate he has some effectiveness in defensive duels.

Overall Assessment

Jonathan David is an effective attacking forward with a well-balanced game. His goal-scoring ability, creativity, and passing accuracy make him a highly desirable asset, particularly for a possession-based team like Liverpool. While his defensive work rate is not a standout feature, his technical ability and efficiency in possession compensate, making him a strong candidate for teams seeking a complete forward.