Jonathan David (Getty Images)
According to a report from Football.London, Arsenal have identified Gent forward Jonathan David as a potential replacement for Mesut Ozil.
Mesut Ozil, 31, has just over 12 months left on his current contract at the Emirates Stadium. He signed an extension that made him the highest-paid Arsenal player of all time in February 2018, committing himself to the club until the summer of 2021. Since then, though, the German playmaker has largely been a shadow of his former self.
The 31-year-old has found it difficult to bring consistency to his game as Arsenal have struggled this season. Ozil has played 18 times this season but registered just one goal and two assists. With the creative midfielder ageing and out of contract at the end of next season, the Gunners are perhaps right in plotting his potential replacements.
Speaking about Jonathan David, 20, the forward has been in sensational form for Belgian club Gent, mustering 23 goals and 10 assists in just 40 appearances this term. The 20-year-old, who was born in Brooklyn, New York – moved to Belgium in 2018 from Ottowa Internationals. He was previously voted Canada’s Player of the Year and has 11 goals in 12 appearances for his country.
David has predominantly played as a No.10 but can lead the line himself or play just off the shoulder of a centre-forward. He has also played on the left wing on several occasions. Such versatility could make him a real asset for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who could lose star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this summer. (h/t The Daily Mail)
Aubameyang, 30, Arsenal’s top scorer this season with 20 goals, is yet to commit his future at the club. Like Ozil, he has just over 12 months left on his contract and this has seen the Gabonese attract interest from Barcelona.
The Gunners may cash in on him this summer rather than lose him for free 12 months later, and have subsequently slapped a £50million price-tag on their skipper. (h/t The Daily Mail)
That being said, Arsenal could do with a talent like David up front if Aubameyang leaves. His impressive run of 23 goals across all competitions for Genk this season shows he could have a big future in the game. These numbers are stunning considering the youngster operates mainly as an attacking midfielder rather than as a striker.
To have made 33 goal contributions already this season is very impressive even though the Canadian plays his football in Belgium. Having performed exceptionally well for Gent and the national team till date, David is a perfect fit at Arsenal if they wish to improve their performances next season.
Moreover, the Gunners do not have any other attacking midfielder than Ozil in their side, which makes the Canadian a viable option.
All in all, David is a sublime talent with immense potential. He could unlock his real potential under Arteta, whilst being the long-term replacement for the ageing Ozil at Arsenal.
