‘Jonathan David to Newcastle update as Napoli move fades’
Jonathan David is admired at Newcastle as they search for a new striker to add to Eddie Howe’s squad this summer, while a rival suitor may have fallen away.
After surviving a potential sanction from the Premier League last summer due to profit and sustainability rules (PSR), the Magpies are seemingly in a good position to strengthen their squad.
Newcastle qualified for the Champions League, despite losing to Everton on the final day of the Premier League, and will need more depth for their team as they compete on multiple fronts next season.
The striker position is an issue at St. James’ Park. Alexander Isak is facing an uncertain future amid interest from Liverpool, whilst last year’s back-ups, Callum Wilson and William Osula, look set to leave the club this summer.
Mick Brown revealed to Football Insider in March that Newcastle were interested in a move for Lille striker David, who will become a free agent this summer.
But despite a positive development relating to the competition and the club admiring the Canadian’s talents, a deal for the striker looks unlikely, according to BBC Sport.
Jonathan David to Newcastle ‘looks unlikely’
The 25-year-old striker impressed during his time in Ligue 1 with Lille, scoring 109 goals in 232 appearances for the club.
And with a dearth of talent available in the striker market, David‘s name has been linked with plenty of teams.
But according to the report, the Canadian international may be “admired” by Newcastle, but sources revealed a deal for the forward “looks unlikely”.
David’s wage demands have “cooled the possibility of a move” to Italian club Napoli, but that apparently doesn’t mean the Magpies are set to swoop in place of the Scudetto winners.
Newcastle wage structure causing recruitment issues
Football Insider Verdict
Pete O’Rourke revealed to Football Insider that Newcastle’s wage structure played a role in Bryan Mbeumo choosing Man United over Howe’s side.
The Cameroonian would have been a phenomenal addition to the Magpies’ team and given them a reliable goal-scoring alternative to Isak.
But, barring a late swoop from Tottenham, Mbeumo looks set to move to Manchester rather than the North East.
And now it appears that, once again, Newcastle’s wage structure is a sticking point in their ability to sign players this summer.
David undoubtedly is asking for a big pay packet, given half of Europe has shown interest in him. But the Canadian comes without a transfer fee and is a fantastic talent.
Newcastle either need to take a risk, or lower their standards this summer as they face the risk of taking a step backwards next season.