Arsenal: Is Jonathan David the perfect striker target?

Jonathan David is Not the Perfect Fit for Arsenal – But He Can be

The Canadian’s attacking qualities are superb. This is someone who almost always hits the target, can strike the ball cleanly with both feet and is producing on the Champions League stage. Each side of his game is developing every week – his link up play is getting noticeably better – and he has the capability to drop off, connect play and also the pace to play on the shoulder.

What’s better, the current state of French football’s finances mean he will come in at a fraction of some of the fees for other strikers in Europe, with not a great deal over the £25m Lille forked out said to be enough to lure him away.

At such a young age with room for development, as well as a hunger to succeed demonstrated by his move to Belgium at such a young age and decision to join Lille over other clubs, what is not to like?

Barring the occasional quality concerns – technical craft and aerial prowess – the drawback is whether there is just too much development needed. Under normal circumstances he might be exactly what Arsenal are after, but this is a team not in need of another ‘project’ addition, and instead craving a transformative option to lift the ceiling of the side immediately.

David has all components and is showing development in the right areas to suggest he certainly can be that player, it’s just how long do Arsenal have to see that come to fruition? In an established environment with familiarity and comfort of selection, David is someone who can keep exploding. Factor in adjustment to the Premier League and a different style of play, and the two goals in 25 appearances stretch could be on show again.

There is also the debate as to whether he is suited to playing as a lone striker. Arteta’s current 4-4-2 will not last and David has flourished in both his senior clubs with a fellow frontman (or two) to bounce off. Stylistically there could be an even longer wait.

Were Arsenal to make a move in the summer and sign David with the view of him working off Aubameyang for a season before being integrated then there would be no backlash. He is undoubtedly talented and on his way up.

However, while he might be the right guy, it feels like, just maybe, it’s the wrong time.