Arsenal are expected to sign a new striker this summer.
Once Andrea Berta arrives as Director of Football, the Gunners can focus on adding a new frontman to the squad for Mikel Arteta – who has been using Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker after injuries to Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal have opened talks to sign Jonathan David – who sees his contract with Lille expire in July – which would be an exciting addition, seeing as the Canadian has scored 23 goals in 41 games so far this season.
Benjamin Sesko is an option for Arsenal too – although the Slovenian has a £55m release clause.
Jonathan David – in stark contrast – would be free for Arsenal, and the Lille No.9 has just made an interesting comment.
Jonathan David opens the door to Arsenal move over Tottenham and West Ham
Tottenham are keen to sign David too – as are West Ham – although the man born in New York has now shared an interview which very much suggests Arsenal lead the race ahead of their two London rivals.
The 25-year-old told CBS: “I’m not sure if I’m staying or going, but if I do end up going I think I have to push myself at the very highest level.”
“I’m not sure if I’m staying [at Lille] or going, but if I do end up going, I’m going to push to play at the highest level.”
Jonathan David reflects on his winning goal, Canada’s mentality ahead of the World Cup, and his personal drive to reach the next level 🇨🇦💪 pic.twitter.com/RztZGSpDdP
— Golazo America (@GolazoAmerica) March 24, 2025
Arsenal currently sit second in the Premier League and are widely expected to qualify for the UEFA Champions League – the highest level of club football – whereas Tottenham and West Ham sit 14th and 16th respectively, with European football highly unlikely for either side next season.
Therefore, David’s comments should very much encourage Arsenal fans as the Gunners battle Spurs and the Hammers for the Canadian’s signature.
Andrea Berta could become an immediate hero
Edu Gaspar did well at Arsenal, signing Gabriel Martinelli for £6m and Martin Odegaard in a £30m deal, but David on a free transfer could well trump anything the Brazilian negotiated, if Berta can pull it off.
The Lille talisman is only 25 years of age – so his best could still be yet to come – while it isn’t just French football where he shines.
David also boasts 31 goals in just 60 games for Canada – better than a goal every other game – proving he can adapt to different surroundings.
If Berta can pull this deal off, it could end up being one of the best moves of the summer.
