Transfer Centre

RB Leipzig to rival Manchester United for Lille forward Jonathan David?

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 23 February 2023

RB Leipzig to rival Man United for Jonathan David?

RB Leipzig reportedly become the latest club to be linked with a potential approach for Lille forward Jonathan David.

RB Leipzig have reportedly identified Lille forward Jonathan David as a potential summer transfer target.

David is currently in his third campaign at the Ligue 1 outfit and is already on course to beat his return of 19 goals during the 2021-22 campaign.

The 23-year-old has contributed 17 strikes from 26 outings in all competitions since August, taking him to 49 goals and nine assists from 122 appearances since 2020.

However, with Lille having failed to build on their title-winning season during his first year, the Canada international has been frequently linked with a switch to a bigger club.

During the January transfer window, Manchester United were credited as admirers of David, who is capable of playing down the middle of the attack and in a deeper role.

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

The Premier League giants eventually moved to sign Wout Weghorst on a temporary basis, but United and other English clubs will continue to monitor any developments with David's future.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, rival interest could come from the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig said to be keen on securing a deal.

Romano says that Leipzig are "heavily interested" in David having been left impressed by his progression in recent seasons.

Leipzig have already signed Benjamin Sesko ahead of next season, the highly-rated striker making the switch from Red Bull Salzburg.

RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku celebrates scoring their second goal on April 14, 2022 © Reuters

The Slovenian frontman will challenge Andre Silva for a place down the middle of the attack, but a replacement is expected to be required from Christopher Nkunku.

Romano, as well as other outlets, have claimed that a deal has already been agreed for Nkunku to link up with Chelsea at the end of the season.

Leipzig could theoretically use any funds generated from Nkunku's sale to sign David, who has a contract at Lille until 2025.

Les Dogues are currently nine points adrift of Champions League qualification, something which is likely required for David to consider penning fresh terms at the French side.