Two Jonathan David comments spell bad news for Man United as 'dream' transfer named

Manchester United have been dealt a transfer blow by two comments made by January target Jonathan David.

The Lille striker, 25, has become one of the most highly-rated young strikers in Europe in the last few years. David has set Ligue 1 and the Champions League ablaze this season, scoring 18 goals and assisting seven in 31 games, suggesting he is ready for a big move.

It comes as no surprise that David has attracted interest from several of Europe’s top clubs. And the Canada international’s contract, which is set to expire at the end of this season, means he is very likely to leave Lille by the summer.

David this month entered the last six months of his deal, which means he is now able to negotiate a pre-contractual agreement to join another club on a free transfer at the end of this campaign. However, Lille selling him this month would generate some funds from his transfer before then.

That would play into the hands of United, who Sky Sports claim have identified him as a target. But two of the Brooklyn-born forward’s recent comments indicate that he might not be open to a January move to Old Trafford.

In light of interest from La Liga giants Barcelona, David told The Athletic: “[Barcelona] was always the team I grew up supporting. When you grow up supporting a team, it’s your dream to play for them.”

While the position at Barcelona is currently occupied by Robert Lewandowski, the Pole turns 37 in August and the Catalan club will soon need to consider a long-term replacement. David’s comments indicate that he holds Barcelona in higher regard than United, and would choose Hansi Flick’s side over Ruben Amorim’s project if given the choice.

That is despite the player candidly speaking previously about seeing the Premier