Transfer Centre

Chelsea transfer news: Blues 'hold' talks over potential David transfer

By Ben Sully | 22 June 2024

Striker solution? Chelsea 'hold' talks with David

Chelsea reportedly hold talks over a potential transfer for Lille forward Jonathan David as they step up their search to find a new striker.

Chelsea have reportedly held talks over a potential transfer for Lille forward Jonathan David.

The Blues are desperate to bring in a new striker to provide competition for Senegal international Nicolas Jackson.

Chelsea have recently been linked with a number of possible targets, including Aston Villa's Jhon Duran and Atletico Madrid's Samu Omorodion.

The West Londoners are expected to submit another bid for Omorodion after having a £33.8m turned down by Diego Simeone's side.

While they may still be in the hunt for Omorodion's signature, Chelsea are seemingly keen to keep their options open as they look to recruit more firepower for Enzo Maresca's first season in charge.

Jonathan DAVID of Lille celebrate his goal with Hakon ARNAR HARALDSSON of Lille on June 18, 2024 © Reuters

Chelsea hold talks over David move

The Blues were previously reported as one of several clubs who are interested in signing David from Lille this summer.

Chelsea's Premier League rivals Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked, but it appears that the capital club are looking to steal a march on their competitors.

According to The Athletic, Chelsea have held discussions with David's representatives over a potential summer move to Stamford Bridge.

Lille president Olivier Letang recently admitted that David is set to leave this summer, with the striker set to enter the final 12 months of his contract.

As it stands, Chelsea have made no official approach, but they are said to have a positive relationship with Lille which could prove beneficial if they decide to enter negotiations.

Jonathan David celebrates scoring their first goal on December 17, 2023 © Reuters

What makes David an appealing option?

David has established himself as one of Ligue 1's standout strikers since joining Lille from Gent in the summer of 2020.

The Canadian has scored 84 goals in 183 competitive appearances to become the third-highest scorer in Lille's history.

David, who won the Ligue 1 title with Lille in 2021, scored 26 goals and provided nine assists in 47 matches during the 2023-24 campaign.

The striker registered 19 of those 26 strikes in the French top flight to finish joint-second in the scoring charts and help Lille achieve a fourth-placed finish.

While his future has become the subject of much speculation, David is currently focused on representing his country at the Copa America in the USA.

David played the duration of Canada's 2-0 defeat to Argentina, and he is expected to retain his starting spot for Tuesday's second group game against Peru.