Gazzetta: Milan seek deal with David again as Fonseca provides advantage

Milan are interested in pursuing a deal for Lille striker Jonathan David once again according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, and Paulo Fonseca’s presence in the Rossoneri dugout could provide an advantage in discussions with the Canada international.

David is into the final year of his contract in Ligue 1 and is set to leave Lille once his deal expires at the end of June. Assuming he doesn’t sign a new contract in the next few months, he will be free to negotiate with other clubs from January onwards.

The Rossoneri are already thinking about bringing another striker in next summer to compete with Alvaro Morata, as Tammy Abraham has not yet convinced after scoring just once since his deadline day loan move from Roma.

Milan are one of several ‘top’ clubs across Europe interested in picking David up on a free transfer, though, as Inter, Juventus and Napoli have all made previous enquiries, as have Barcelona and a host of clubs in the Premier League according to Monday’s report.

Milan had also considered making a move for him last summer, before turning to Joshua Zirkzee and then eventually landing on Alvaro Morata.

Fonseca advantage for Milan in David talks

David has excelled for Lille since his €30m move from Gent in the summer of 2020, netting 76 league goals from 152 Ligue 1 appearances for an average slightly better than a goal every other game. He currently has eight from 13 appearances in all competitions this term.

David’s most productive seasons, however, have come under current Milan coach Fonseca. The Canadian grabbed 26 goals from 40 games under the Rossoneri tactician in 2022-23, before backing that up with another 26 from 47 matches the following campaign.

Milan hope that Fonseca’s pull could give them a leg-up in conversations with David and his entourage.

Milan are aware that David is likely to command a hefty set of personal terms, but the fact that he is available on a free transfer is a massively enticing opportunity.