Manchester United's chances of landing Jonathan David in January have suffered a potential double blow after the 25-year-old Lille striker made not one but two telling comments. One of the most exciting youngsters in European football, David has been tracked by some of the biggest clubs on the continent, and given his contract ends at the end of the campaign, many expected him to make a move to Old Trafford. But it appears that might not necessarily be the case, if his latest comments are anything to go by.
Here's why:
1. Barcelona Dreams
David's utterances about Barcelona have been a cause for alarm for Manchester United fans. During an interview with The Athletic, David made it clear that the Spanish giants are a long-time love affair:
[Barcelona] was always the team I grew up supporting. When you grow up supporting a team, it's your dream to play for them.
While Barcelona's striker at the moment is a key player, Robert Lewandowski, he is 37 and his contract is due to end soon, hence the Catalan club needs a long-term replacement for him. That David has said Barcelona is his "dream" team means they are firmly in the running for his signature, while Manchester United may have little chance of luring him to the Premier League.
2. Preference for Hansi Flick's Project
The Lille striker admired other European clubs, most notably admitting that if he had to choose between Manchester United and moving to Germany, he would be leaning toward Bayern Munich under the guidance of Hansi Flick.
With Robert Lewandowski nearing the business end of his career, Bayern Munich will most likely look for a new striker. The fact that David has a personal desire to play for Bayern strengthens speculation that he would prefer to join them rather than United, with their constant success domestically and internationally.
3. Contract Expiry and Pre-Contract Negotiations
Available on a free transfer when his Lille contract expires this summer, David can start discussions with clubs now the January window is shut, opening up some big opportunities for those keen, even though Manchester United remains a possible destination, recent comments from him have suggested there may be higher priorities.
While it might still be quite a fee if Lille sells him in January, it's yet to be seen if United can persuade David that this is the right project for him.
4. Implication on Manchester United Transfer Plans
This could prove to be a blow for Manchester United, for whom David had emerged as their top target. United have been chasing a striker, and their entire policy in the January transfer window was based on securing a player who could help them immediately. David's comments may well see United forced to reassess or turn to other targets.
While Jonathan David's current form has thrown him right into the radars of the best teams in Europe, his dream to play with Barcelona, and preference for Bayern Munich could be a complication to Manchester United's plans. With his contract running down and suitors lining up, it looks like United may have to act fast or turn their attention to other targets this winter.