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Manchester United 'could make Jonathan David move if forward impresses at World Cup'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 07 November 2022

Man United 'could make David move if forward impresses at World Cup'

Manchester United could move for Lille's Jonathan David next year if the forward impresses at the upcoming World Cup, according to a report.

Manchester United could reportedly move for Lille's Jonathan David next year if the forward makes a strong impression at the upcoming World Cup.

The 22-year-old was linked with a move away from his French club over the summer, but the transfer window closed with the striker still at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.

David still has another three years left to run on his contract with Lille, but there is again speculation surrounding his future ahead of the January transfer window.

The Canada international has been in impressive form at club level this term, scoring nine goals and registering three assists in 14 Ligue 1 appearances.

Meanwhile, he has now scored 41 goals and registered eight assists in 110 outings for Les Dogues since making the move from Gent in August 2020.

Lille's Jonathan David celebrates scoring their second goal against Wolfsburg on December 8, 2021 © Reuters

Real Madrid are believed to be interested in David, with the reigning Spanish and European champions looking to sign competition for Karim Benzema in the final third of the field.

Meanwhile, according to GIVEMESPORT, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are keeping a close eye on his situation ahead of the World Cup.

The report claims that a strong tournament in Qatar could lead to Man United making a move for him either in January or during next summer's transfer window.

Lille are said to value the forward at least £40m, while a strong World Cup could further increase his asking price in the new year.

David has an impressive record for Canada, scoring 22 goals and registering 13 assists in 34 appearances for his national side since debuting in September 2018.

Lille's Jonathan David celebrates scoring their first goal on January 24, 2021 © Reuters

Canada are set to play two friendlies ahead of their World Cup opener, facing Bahrain and Japan on November 11 and November 17 respectively.

John Herdman's side will then take on Belgium in their first match in Group F on November 23, before fixtures against Croatia and Morocco on November 27 and December 1 respectively.

Man United are widely expected to be in the market for a new centre-forward next year, as Cristiano Ronaldo prepares to leave following the expiration of his contract.

Anthony Martial had seemingly been set to start the campaign as the team's number one striker, but the Frenchman has struggled with a number of injury problems this season.

Antony and Jadon Sancho have also recently both been absent for the 20-time English champions, which has left head coach Erik ten Hag with limited options in the final third of the field.