As the transfer window enters its final days, Arsenal remains in pursuit of the center-forward that manager Mikel Arteta desperately needs. Despite links to top names like Victor Osimhen and Victor Gyokeres, the Gunners have yet to secure the striker they crave. One name that had been on their radar earlier this summer was Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, but interest in the Swedish forward has since cooled......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
Reports from Football.London suggest that while Arsenal’s hopes of landing Isak have diminished, there remains a glimmer of possibility. However, with an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €71.7 million, Isak may prove too costly, leading the club to explore other options.
One alternative that has gained traction is Lille’s Jonathan David, who recently showcased his abilities in a 2-0 victory over Slavia Prague in the Champions League playoffs. The Canadian striker opened the scoring with a well-taken goal, marking his third strike in four matches this season.
David, who finished last season as Ligue 1’s best-performing center-forward according to data analytics firm SciSports, is a player Arsenal has admired for years. Four years ago, the Gunners attempted to sign David, but he chose to join Lille instead, citing better development opportunities. Now, with 26 goals and nine assists in his most recent campaign, David appears ready for a bigger stage.
Timing could work in Arsenal’s favor as David’s contract with Lille expires next summer, potentially making him a more affordable option. Lille has been asking for around €50 million, a figure closely aligned with his ETV of €43.5 million.
In contrast, the Gunners would need to pay nearly double that amount for Osimhen or Gyokeres. Data from SciSports suggests that David is on par with Osimhen in terms of quality and significantly stronger than Gyokeres.
With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Arteta may see David as a viable and cost-effective solution to Arsenal’s attacking needs. If the Gunners are serious about bolstering their forward line, Jonathan David could be the key addition before the window slams shut.