Sport
Barcelona unsure of whether free agent target can cut it at Camp Nou
Barcelona are one of a number of sides linked with Lille striker Jonathan David next summer, with the Canadian international out of contract next summer and therefore available for free. His recent comments leave no doubt that he would be enthusiastic about this move, but the Catalan side will need some more convincing.
The Blaugrana are yet to decide whether they believe David has the quality to succeed at the club, according to MD. They are conducting an analysis of the 24-year-old's recording, involving multiple scouts, to try to determine as much as possible.
He has provided 13 goals and two assists in 19 games so far this season – a good argument in his favor – but sporting director Deco wants to know whether he is a 'top signing' and whether he would fit into their style. This season he also scored four goals in the Champions League.
One of the clear positives of a move for David would be the lack of transfer fee for Barcelona, and from the sounds of it he would be an alternative to Robert Lewandowski, rather than a de facto starter. However, being a back-up striker for a top club is one of the toughest roles in football, and David would likely play without rhythm and is very different in style to Lewandowski.