In the 2023 summer transfer window, AC Milan always remained interested in signing another striker alongside Noah Okafor, especially given the Swiss star is not a traditional striker. However, nothing came to fruition – even after the club made several bids for Porto striker Medhi Taremi.
As such, the Serie A outfit are looking elsewhere for an heir to their No.9, especially given Luka Jovic has not had the desired impact. Searches so far have remained in Europe, and it seems as though Stefano Pioli has found his ideal candidate.
According to Calciomercato, Milan has set their sights on Jonathan David and will begin work early to try and bring him to the San Siro in 2024. The deal will likely take place in the summer transfer window, although a move in January wouldn’t be off the table.
Why does Jonathan David suit AC Milan?
The Canadian has become the Rossoneri’s preferred striker for many reasons. At just 23, David has been a regular in the Candian National Team set-up, a massively favourable trait for the club.
With 54 goals in 122 Ligue 1 appearances for his current club, Lille, he brings a great record of goals in a top European league. As such, there would be less of an acclimatisation period than had he come from a lesser-quality division.
Statistically, the 23-year-old trumps the veteran Giroud in every key stat. Not only in goals does he prevail, but also across goal-creating actions and progressive actions.
There is also the key thing that if the Diavolo were to act upon their interest, the striker would only get better as time goes on. A tall, physical, and creative goalscorer who is also versatile in his positioning, should he be needed elsewhere.
How will AC Milan move forward with a deal for Jonathan David?
Already, the two clubs have a great understanding, which automatically makes the process easier. CEO Giorgio Furlani has successfully negotiated with Lille previously, which makes proceedings easier. Players like Rafael Leao and Tiago Djalo have moved between the clubs in the recent past.
In addition to this, the French club are asking for a reasonable fee – €40 million – which looks like a steal for Milan in the current market. There is actually a chance that David‘s fee comes down as the season goes on given he is not in great form for Lille in the lead-up to Christmas and by the summer, he will have a year left on his contract.
President Paolo Scaroni recently said: “A Milan that doing well in the Champions League and qualifying for next year’s Champions League would mean a more sustainable Milan with significant revenue. At that point, we could look at the market differently.”
This is the sort of deal that could be dependent on Milan finishing in the top four of Serie A and perhaps making it into the Champions League round of 16.
