Jonathan David sent warning over Man Utd transfer as Lille exit nears

Jonathan David has already announced he will be leaving Lille on a free transfer this summer, with Manchester United among the top clubs interested in bringing in the former Ligue 1 title winner

Jonathan David has been urged to find a club where he will be a regular starter as he parepares to leave Lille. The Canadian announced last week that he would be moving on after five years with the Ligue 1 side.

His performances in France have attracted interest from a range of top clubs. He has become a reliable goalscorer for Lille, helping to fire them to the Ligue 1 title back in 2021.

The 25-year-old has decided the time is right to move on from Stade Pierre-Mauroy. With a record of 109 goals in 232 games, he is sure to be a prime target for several top sides, especially given he is a free agent.

Manchester United and Arsenal have both been linked with him, as the Premier League rivals prioritise signing a new striker this summer. While offers from the duo would be hard to turn down, David has been sent a warning ahead of his decision.

The striker is a key player for Canada, having already become their record goalscorer. But boss Jesse Marsch has warned him he will need regular game-time next season if he wants to be part of Canada's sqiad for the 2026 World Cup.

“Knowing Johnny, he is going to want to play,” Marsch said. “He’s going to want to go to the best club he can be at. And I think achieve the most in terms of what it would mean to compete for trophies in Europe. But he’s going to want to play as well.

"And I think that’s important. I think the most important thing for him is, it’s not good if he goes somewhere and then he has to play on the bench a lot and not get minutes to keep himself sharp and fit and ready to go, especially with the World Cup being a year away.

“I don’t even think Johnny really knows quite yet what that is, but I’m sure he’ll make a good decision. We’re hopeful that he can be with us this summer. But more importantly, we want him to be in a good situation, so that the next year that he has under his belt really leads him into the 2026 World Cup in a good way.”

David made an emotional exit from Lille, who finished fifth in Ligue 1 this season. He thanked the club's fans for supporting him through a difficult start before he developed into a top player.

"I wanted to tell you myself that after so many years at the club, it's time for me to say goodbye," the 25-year-old said on camera in a video shared on social media. "I've spent five wonderful seasons here.

"I know it hasn't always been easy, but I hope that with my goals and celebrations, I've managed to bring you some joy, especially with the French championship title and the Champions Trophy.

"I know I didn't have the easiest start, but you've always been behind me, you've supported me through the tough times, and for that, I'll keep you in my heart."

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