Erling Haaland’s summer transfer decision could have a major impact on Arsenal ahead of next season as they search for a new striker to lead the line.
According to Spanish outlet Defensa central, Real Madrid could move for Lille forward Jonathan David if they miss out on Haaland in the next transfer window.
The Gunners have been heavily linked to the Canadian youngster since the start of the campaign, as Edu looks to end the striker shortage that is currently present at the club.
However, Real Madrid would certainly be a more attractive destination meaning Arsenal could lose one of their main transfer targets,
Los Blancos are not the club interested in Haaland, as it is widely reported that Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Premier League side Manchester City are also chasing his signature.
If Real Madrid do miss out on Haaland and instead target David, then this could provide a major blow for Mikel Arteta’s summer transfer plans.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal have been long-term admirers of the young striker since his time in Belgium with Gent before he joined Lille in 2020.
In this campaign, David already has 12 goals in Ligue 1 which is the highest in a league that boasts the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi, so it would be an opportunity missed if Arsenal didn’t secure his signature.
The Lille forward has been tipped to join the club in the summer, alongside Alexander Isak, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.
David seems to be one of the most attractive signings out of these players due to his admittance in wanting to leave Lille at the end of the season.
Speaking to Radio Canada, David’s agent Nick Mavromaras said: “For us, the objective is to finish the season in Lille, but it will be his last season there for several reasons.”
David has been performing excellently this season in Ligue 1 and in the Champions League , as he played a pivotal part in the club’s European knockout stage progression.
Arsenal needs to sign a striker in the summer due to the likely departure of Alexandre Lacazette , as his contract is set to expire at the end of the season.
To prevent Arteta being short of strikers next season, Edu will need to invest heavily in the striker position, with two players in that role required ahead of the next campaign.
David would certainly be an excellent signing however the uncertainty surrounding Haaland’s future could put Arsenal’s move for the Canadian forward in doubt.
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