‘Contracts signed soon’ – Fabrizio Romano confirms big transfer for Newcastle United target
Jonathan David Set to Join Juventus on Free Transfer Despite Newcastle Interest
Highly-rated Lille striker Jonathan David is reportedly on the verge of completing a free transfer move to Juventus, ending speculation over his future despite lingering interest from Premier League side Newcastle United.
Back in January, reports from NewcastleWorld revealed that scouts from St James’ Park had been closely monitoring the Canadian international, who has steadily built a reputation as one of the most clinical forwards in Europe. At one point, David was valued at around £50 million and heavily linked with a move to Manchester United, underlining his growing stature in the footballing world.
Since arriving at Lille from Belgian outfit Gent in 2020, the 25-year-old has been nothing short of prolific. With 109 goals to his name during his time in France, David has consistently been among Ligue 1’s top performers and helped fire Lille to the Ligue 1 title in the 2020/21 season. However, throughout the past year, the forward has made it increasingly clear that he is ready to take the next step in his career.
Jonathan David’s Desire for a New Challenge
In a candid interview with The Athletic, David spoke openly about his desire to move on from Lille and the kind of club he is looking to join. “Obviously, I’d like to have something done before the start of pre-season,” the Canadian star said. “To prepare myself as best as possible with my new team. I want a club with ambition. Obviously, I want to fight to win titles. A competitive team with ambition and a good sporting project.”
David also weighed in on the stylistic differences between Europe’s top leagues, hinting at a preference for Italian football. “When I look at Serie A compared to, for example, the Premier League, the latter has a faster pace. Serie A is more tactical. It’s like a game of chess, in a way.”
Those comments now seem prophetic, as he prepares to head to one of Serie A’s biggest clubs.
Juventus Close In On the Canadian Star
Reliable Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Juventus have reached a full verbal agreement with David, paving the way for a formal move in the coming days. Taking to social media, Romano posted: “Jonathan David to Juventus, here we go! Verbal agreement reached overnight on every detail with the Canadian striker. Long-term deal agreed and Jonathan David’s set to travel for medical tests, formal steps to follow. Contracts to be checked and signed soon.”
Juventus, who are rebuilding under new sporting leadership and are looking to return to title contention, view David as a crucial part of their future plans. The signing would be a major coup for the Turin giants, who are acquiring a proven goal-scorer without having to pay a transfer fee.
Where Does That Leave Newcastle?
Despite their prior interest, Newcastle United now look set to miss out on David’s signature. Sources suggest that one key reason the move didn’t progress was David’s desire to be a starting striker — something that could not be guaranteed on Tyneside given the form of Alexander Isak.
Since arriving in 2022 for a club-record £63 million, Isak has blossomed into a star and is currently viewed as the cornerstone of Newcastle’s attacking setup. With 62 goals in just 109 appearances, the Swedish international has drawn comparisons with elite forwards across Europe and is currently valued well in excess of £150 million by the Magpies.
David, understandably, was unwilling to settle for a backup role, making Juventus a more attractive option with likely assurances of regular playing time.
The Magpies Still Eyeing Reinforcements Up Front
Newcastle are still expected to reinforce their forward line this summer, especially with Callum Wilson’s future hanging in the balance. The 32-year-old striker’s contract officially expired on Monday, and while talks are ongoing, any new deal is likely to come with reduced terms and heavy performance-related incentives.
Promising youngster Will Osula, who recently caught the eye with his performances at the U21 European Championship, is another internal option. However, the club remains keen on adding a versatile attacker — someone who can operate both as a striker and in wide areas, much like Joao Pedro, whom Newcastle previously tried to lure away from Watford and later from Brighton.
The summer transfer window is still in its early stages, and while David’s decision to join Juventus may have closed one door, Newcastle United are still actively exploring their options in the market as they aim to build a deeper, more dynamic squad ahead of the new campaign.