Why Jonathan David Could Be Arsenal’s Missing Piece in Attack

Why Jonathan David Could Be Arsenal’s Ideal Striker Signing

As the 2021 January transfer window opens, Arsenal’s need for a new striker is increasingly clear. With changes anticipated in the attacking lineup, LOSC Lille’s Canadian forward Jonathan David has emerged as a compelling candidate to bolster the Gunners’ front line. This in-depth analysis explores Arsenal’s current challenges, David’s unique skill set, and how the striker could seamlessly fit into Mikel Arteta’s tactical plans.

Arsenal’s Striker Puzzle: The Current Situation

Under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, Arsenal have transformed from early-season strugglers into one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers. The Gunners’ improved form is fueled by the emergence of dynamic talents like Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Emile Smith Rowe, while Alexandre Lacazette has contributed as a creative, hard-working forward often playing as a false nine. His ability to drop deep and connect play suits Arteta’s possession-focused system, and he is valued for his pressing off the ball.

However, despite these advances, Arsenal still lack a striker who offers a higher goal threat than Lacazette—but who also complements the team’s intricate possession game and energetic pressing. Meanwhile, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s future at the club remains uncertain, and Lacazette’s contract is set to expire. This combination of circumstances highlights the need for a forward who can both exceed the current crop’s output and thrive within Arteta’s tactical blueprint.

What Sets Jonathan David Apart?

Jonathan David has quickly become one of Ligue 1’s most effective attacking players, netting 12 goals in 19 matches for Lille, even as the team sits mid-table. However, focusing solely on his scoring record would miss the elements that make him an ideal Arsenal target.

David is widely recognized for:
– Exceptional off-the-ball movement and understanding of pressing, ranking among Europe’s best pressing centre-forwards.
– High work rate and intensity, especially in the attacking third, making him a superb fit for systems requiring forwards to initiate defensive actions.
– Mobility and positional intelligence, which contribute to both his defensive duties and attacking threat.
– Versatility in attack—capable of scoring with both feet and his head, and consistently finding space inside the penalty area.

His profile suggests a near-perfect alignment with the demands placed on centre-forwards by Arteta, particularly regarding coordinated pressing, link-up play, and progressive off-ball runs.

In-Depth Evaluation: David’s Style in Possession

On the ball, David demonstrates an effective balance between dropping deep to support build-up and acting as a direct threat behind defensive lines. Though not yet as inventive as Lacazette in creative play, David’s style suggests a player capable of developing under Arteta’s possession-focused system. Notably, David:
– Prefers receiving the ball on the move, allowing him to drive at space, unsettle defenders, and keep transitions fluid.
– Makes more positive, forward-thinking actions in midfield areas rather than simply recycling possession backward.
– Is comfortable taking players on and progressing play—a trait that matches well with Arsenal’s approach and its roster of quick, technical wingers.

Although he sometimes attempts to do too much individually, this positive drive could inject the kind of directness Arsenal occasionally lack.

David’s Goal Scoring Arsenal and Box Movement

David’s efficiency inside the penalty area stands out. During the assessment period, he scored 7 goals with his right foot, 4 with his left, and 1 via header—all within the box. His instinct to find and exploit small pockets of space plays directly into the strengths of an Arsenal side that excels at creating opportunities for runners into the 18-yard area, whether in settled possession or on the counter.

Crucially, David’s composure on his first touch enables him to create scoring angles in tight situations—often taking a touch to create space before finishing, or recognizing moments to strike first-time. This versatility makes him well-suited for the types of opportunities Arsenal consistently generate.

Head-to-Head: Comparing David, Lacazette, and Aubameyang

To assess David’s suitability, let’s compare his attacking, defensive, and possession-related metrics with Arsenal’s current strikers.

*Data provided by FBRef. Numbers reflect performance at time of analysis.

These statistics reinforce David’s potential to upgrade Arsenal’s attack, especially in terms of goal output, pressing from the front, and efficient use of possession.

Transfer Feasibility: What Would It Take?

Recruiting David in January could be challenging, given his importance to Lille and a market valuation around €50 million, up from the €27 million Lille paid in August 2020. Arsenal, however, are well-placed to negotiate an attractive offer, possibly involving a swap with Aubameyang, who is reportedly open to a return to Ligue 1.

With Lacazette’s contract running down, Arsenal are under pressure to plan for the future now. The club has shown its willingness to invest heavily (such as for Ben White), and ownership has the financial resources to compete for top young talent.

Conclusion: Why Arsenal Should Move for Jonathan David

Arsenal are at a crossroads regarding their forward options. The club requires more than just a proficient goalscorer—it needs a dynamic, hard-working, and tactically flexible striker who fits Arteta’s vision of proactive, possession-driven, high-press football. Jonathan David checks all these boxes, providing the prospect of increased goal output without sacrificing defensive intensity or link-up play.

If Arsenal want to continue their upward trajectory and address a looming gap up front, Jonathan David is a forward-thinking solution who could develop into a foundational piece for years to come.