Transfer Centre

Lille forward Jonathan David 'emerges as Chelsea target'

By Carter White | 29 January 2024

Chelsea are reportedly monitoring Lille striker Jonathan David ahead of a potential transfer swoop, with Manchester United also admirers of the 24-year-old.

Chelsea have reportedly entered the race for Lille's Jonathan David in 2024, with the striker set for a move away from France this year.

The 24-year-old has not been at his best in terms of goalscoring this campaign but is still a key player for Les Dogues, netting six times in 19 Ligue 1 appearances.

That being said, David made the net ripple on three occasions and provided three assists during Lille's 12-0 thrashing of Golden Lion de Saint Joseph on January 6.

The Canadian was among the highest scorers in the French top flight last season, scoring 24 times in 37 top-flight appearances as his side finished fifth in the division.

According to Telefoot, Chelsea have joined a number of other top European clubs in the race for David's services in 2024.

Jonathan David in action for Canada at the 2022 World Cup on December 1, 2022 © Reuters

The report claims that an upturn in goalscoring form from the attacker since the beginning of December has led to Mauricio Pochettino's men entering the race for his services.

David has just under 18 months left on his current terms at Decathlon Arena, with the player supposedly unwilling to agree to an extension of his deal.

It is believed that the 45-time international has his heart set on a move to the Premier League during this calendar year, meaning a switch to Chelsea is a distinct possibility.

However, it has also been reported that Manchester United are lining up a deal for David during either the January or summer transfer window, with Erik ten Hag looking to bolster his attacking options.

Chelsea's Cole Palmer in action with Aston Villa's Alex Moreno on January 26, 2024 © Reuters

After hitting Middlesbrough for six to book a spot in the final of the EFL Cup, Chelsea were unable to breach the net of Emiliano Martinez during a goalless draw in the fourth round of the FA Cup against Aston Villa on Friday night.

Summer arrival Cole Palmer leads the Blues' Golden Boot race with nine Premier League goals so far this season, however it is believed that Pochettino wants a central striker to support the likes of Nicolas Jackson and Armando Broja.

Albania international Broja has reportedly captured the interest of Wolverhampton Wanderers, so Chelsea could have even fewer striking options by the end of the transfer window.

Looking to bridge the gap between themselves and the European spots, the Blues will face Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool at Anfield in the Premier League on Wednesday night.