Report: Arsenal and Newcastle open talks with Lille over Jonathan David

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Arsenal and Newcastle have now opened talks with Lille over Jonathan David, with Calciomercato reporting that the Premier League pair are amongst the clubs leading the race for the striker.

David has been outstanding for the Ligue 1 champions this season. He has scored 16 goals in 34 appearances in all competitions, including 12 in the top flight.

Calciomercato reports that a number of the best clubs in the world want David. However, Lille do not want to let him go on the cheap, with an asking price of £50 million set.

AC Milan and Inter want the Canada international. But Calciomercato suggests that he is unlikely to move to Italy at the end of the season. Liverpool have previously been linked with the 22-year-old.

Arsenal, Newcastle and Borussia Dortmund are in discussions with Lille regarding a move. And Calciomercato reports that the trio lead the race to sign David.

Signing David would be a real statement from Arsenal and Newcastle

Arsenal and Newcastle definitely need to sign at least one new striker in the summer. Neither club have been particularly prolific this term, with Emile Smith Rowe the top goalscorer across the two teams with nine Premier League goals this season.

David took a little time to find his feet following his move from Gent. But he has taken his game to another level this season. He has previously been described as a ‘phenomenon‘.

He has starting to prove himself in the Champions League. And he can play up front, or as more of a second striker.

So it would be a real statement if Arsenal or Newcastle could bring David to the Premier League this summer.

Certainly, it would appear that both clubs are starting to step up their push to sign the forward ahead of the window opening.