Arsenal are set to make an offer for Lille’s Jonathan David but will wait until their new sporting director is in place, with an appointment expected this month.
Arsenal are preparing to make an offer for Lille forward Jonathan David, but will wait until their new sporting director is in place before advancing discussions, according to reports.
The club expects to have their new sporting director appointed this month (March), ensuring a clear strategy heading into the summer transfer window.
David, 25, is set to be one of the most in-demand free agents this summer, with his contract at Lille expiring at the end of the season.
West Ham United have already made their move, reportedly offering a €20 million package in agent fees, salary, and bonuses to secure the Canadian striker, while Barcelona are also interested but financially constrained.
Arsenal’s entry into the race is expected in the coming weeks, once the club finalises its sporting director appointment.
According to reports, former Atlético Madrid chief Andrea Berta is the frontrunner for the role, with advanced talks already taking place.
Berta, who left Atlético Madrid earlier this year, has a strong record of squad-building and high-profile signings, including Antoine Griezmann, Rodri, and Jan Oblak.
However, Berta is not the only candidate under consideration.
Monaco CEO Thiago Scuro, former Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth, and Real Sociedad’s Roberto Olabe have all been linked with the position.
Arsenal had initially hoped to have a replacement for Edu, who departed in November, confirmed by early March, and sources indicate that decision-making is now in its final stages.
The appointment of a new sporting director will shape Arsenal’s summer transfer plans, with David emerging as a key target.
The Canadian international, who has consistently ranked among Ligue 1’s top scorers, is seen as a versatile, mobile striker who fits Mikel Arteta’s system. With 21 goals and nine assists this season, his ability to play across the front line makes him an attractive addition to Arsenal’s attack which is in major need of an overhaul.
While West Ham’s offer gives them an early advantage, Arsenal’s status as a Champions League club could prove decisive in David’s final decision.