Arsenal’s Transfer Plans Receive Boost as Andrea Berta Eyes Free Agent Striker
Arsenal’s pursuit of a striker has intensified in recent weeks, with the North London club reportedly interested in signing Lille’s Jonathan David. According to sources, Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, is keen on signing the Canadian striker, who will be available on a free transfer at the end of the season.
The Gunners had been heavily linked with Viktor Gyokeres, but Berta is reportedly exploring other options to ensure that the club can strengthen their squad without overspending. Gyokeres, a Swedish striker, has impressed with his goal-scoring record, but his price tag of over £63 million is a significant concern for Arsenal.
As reported by Arsenal Insider, Berta is an admirer of David and believes that he could be a shrewd signing for the club. The 25-year-old has scored 25 goals across all competitions this season and has consistently impressed in Ligue 1.
However, Arsenal’s interest in David is not without its challenges. Inter Live reports that Napoli, Juventus, and Inter Milan are also interested in signing the Canadian striker, and Premier League clubs such as Chelsea, West Ham, and Newcastle are also in the running.
If Berta can secure David’s signature, it would allow Arsenal to allocate funds to other areas of the pitch. The club has been linked with a number of top-class wingers and midfielders, and signing David would provide a significant boost to their transfer plans.
But would David be a smart signing for Arsenal? While he has been prolific in Ligue 1, his statistics suggest that he may struggle to replicate his form in the Premier League. According to FBRef, David accumulates just 0.38 non-penalty expected goals, which is less than what Kai Havertz puts up in a much more challenging league.
As noted by Arsenal Insider, David’s all-round game is also limited compared to other top-class strikers. Unless he is deemed a depth piece, it may be wise for Arsenal to steer clear of David and focus on signing a more clinical and well-rounded striker.
Football podcaster HLTCO described David as ‘outstanding’, highlighting his consistency and fitness record. However, it remains to be seen whether he has the quality to lead Arsenal’s line every week.
As the transfer window approaches, Arsenal’s plans will continue to be closely watched. With Berta at the helm, the club is likely to make some shrewd signings, but it remains to be seen whether David will be one of them.
In related news, Arsenal Insider revealed that Berta is keen on signing a world-class winger and midfielder to strengthen the squad.
David’s Ligue 1 statistics for the 2024/25 season include:
* Appearances: 31
* Goals: 16
* Assists: 5
* Shots per 90: 2.32
* Expected Goals per 90: 0.58
* Key Passes per 90: 1.3
* Expected Assists per 90: 0.12
* Successful Take-ons per 90: 0.72
These statistics, via FBRef, provide a detailed insight into David’s performance in Ligue 1 this season.
Photo: Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
LISBON, PORTUGAL – APRIL 7: Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting celebrates after scoring a goal during the Liga Portugal Betclic match between Sporting Clube de Portugal and Sporting Clube de Braga at Estadio Jose Alvalade on April 7, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal.
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MAY 11: Andrea Berta, Sporting Director of Arsenal, looks on prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Arsenal FC at Anfield on May 11, 2025 in Liverpool, England.
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