Man Utd target Jonathan David tells of 'dream club' he would like to join

Manchester United’s hopes of signing Lille striker Jonathan David in the have hit a stumbling block, as the in-demand forward has expressed reservations about a mid-season move.

The 25-year-old Canadian has been in sensational form this season, netting 18 goals and providing seven assists in 31 appearances across Ligue 1 and the Champions League, making him one of Europe’s most coveted talents.

With David's contract set to expire at the end of the season, he is free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with other clubs ahead of a potential free transfer in the summer.

While this situation might allow Lille to cash in during the current window, the player himself has cast doubt on the prospect of a January exit, despite United reportedly identifying him as a key target.

David has sent two clear messages that could dampen United’s pursuit.

In a recent interview with The Athletic, the striker shared his admiration for Barcelona, saying: "[Barcelona] was always the team I grew up supporting.

"When you grow up supporting a team, it's your dream to play for them."

Although Barcelona currently rely on Robert Lewandowski as their main striker, the Polish international turns 37 this year, prompting the La Liga giants to explore long-term replacements.

David’s comments suggest he may prioritize a move to Barcelona over joining Ruben Amorim’s project at Old Trafford, should the opportunity arise.

In a separate interview, David addressed the prospect of a January transfer and voiced his preference for a summer move: "Going to a club mid-season is never easy.

"It’s not like the beginning of a season where you have a pre-season, you get to know your team-mates, you have time to gel. In January, things are very hectic. It’s about right now. It’s tougher."

Lille have also indicated their reluctance to sell David mid-season, as the striker remains pivotal to their push for Champions League qualification.

The financial rewards of securing a top-four finish outweigh the benefits of a January transfer fee, especially with Lille likely to demand a significant premium to part with their star player before the summer.

Missing out on David would be a blow for Manchester United, who have struggled offensively this season, managing just 27 Premier League goals.

Current options Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have underwhelmed, combining for only five league goals.

In contrast, David has showcased his scoring ability against elite opposition, registering seven goals in 11 Champions League games this season, including strikes against Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, and Liverpool.

Newcastle United have also entered the race for David.

According to Chronicle Live, the Magpies sent a high-level delegation to watch the striker in action against OGC Nice, a club owned by United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS firm.

Newcastle’s growing ambitions and financial clout could make them a formidable competitor for David’s signature.

With both David and Lille favoring a summer transfer, Manchester United may have to wait or shift their focus to alternative targets.

While United’s interest in David underscores their intent to bolster their attack, the player’s hesitations and Lille’s unwillingness to negotiate this month make an immediate move unlikely.