If a report from Calciomercato is believed to be true, Tottenham Hotspur are keeping close eyes on Lille striking ace Jonathan David ahead of the winter window. But they are not alone on his trail with North London rivals Arsenal also keen on securing his services following Gabriel Jesus’ knee injury.
The Lilywhites are currently fourth in the Premier League standings as they are battling for a second-successive Champions League qualification after last term’s photo finish. Antonio Conte has often been criticized for his defensive and unalluring style of football, but the Italian leaves an impact every time en route to reaching the season’s goals. He has been backed by Daniel Levy over the past two windows and the spending spree must continue to tie down the January targets.
David progressed through the academy ranks of Gloucester Dragons, Ottawa Gloucester Hornets and Ottawa Internationals before being scouted and recruited by Gent. Soon he secured first-team status and his exquisite scoring streak earned him a transfer to Lille in the summer of 2020. The youngster was an instant success upon completing his €30m move as he scored 13 goals in their 2020-21 Ligue 1 winning campaign.
Why Tottenham Hotspur Should Tie Him Down
The 22-year-old Canada international continued to make strides for both club and the country. So far he has netted 9 times and laid on 3 more in 15 league outings. His physicality does not suit him as a targetman, but he has proved his excellence as a second striker or a ‘number 10’ behind a traditional ‘number 9’. David is quick, intelligent and hard-working, whereas his technicality and movement high up the pitch help him occupy the pockets and attack the spaces.
Tottenham Hotspur are well-equipped in the attacking third with captain Harry Kane leading them from the front. Conte prefers a 3-5-2 or 3-4-3, but his formation has restricted both Richarlison and Son Heung-min’s usual game. While they are still attuning to the manager’s vision, the arrival of David would be a welcome boost both in terms of depth as well as quality across competitions.
Son, Dejan Kulusevski, Ivan Perišić and Lucas Moura are effective from the flanks, but the young Canadian must be deployed centrally to challenge and cover both Kane and Richarlison. He would be menacing if the gaffer decides to field a two-man frontline and his build-up play should create more space and chances for Kane while staging counter-attacks. A North London battle could be on the cards in terms of snapping up the Lille sensation.
