Exclusive: Newcastle in talks to sign 26-goal striker for free, he's told his club he wants to leave

Today at 06:15 AM

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

Newcastle United didn't quite achieve all that they may have hoped in the summer transfer window, especially in terms of strengthening their forward line.

It's been an indifferent start to the season for Newcastle under Eddie Howe, who have achieved some commendable results but are yet to meet their usual standards.

It hasn't quite clicked for Howe's side, and perhaps Alexander Isak's frustrations are the best example – he's been nowhere near as dangerous as he was towards the end of last season.

Of course, Callum Wilson is still injured for Newcastle, meaning there's currently no obvious alternative to Isak.

Newcastle don't think William Osula is ready just yet, someone described as a ‘project player’.

That being said, TBR Football understands that Newcastle have made an enquiry to sign Jonathan David.

Paul Mitchell keen to bring Lille striker Jonathan David to St James’ Park

David, who scored 26 goals for Lille last term, was considered by a number of Premier League sides in the summer, but no offers were made.

However, David's representatives are talking with a number of Premier League clubs ahead of potential signing a pre-contract in January.

READ MORE: Newcastle eyeing £40m Aston Villa player ahead of the January transfer window

The prospect of signing the Canadian striker on a free transfer has alerted a lot of his suitors, including Newcastle.

Under Paul Mitchell's guidance, Newcastle are one of those who are keen and have asked for the 'numbers' about a deal – although David would be a free agent, he will also carry a significant contract and large agent fees.

Although, Newcastle are not alone – Arsenal, Chelsea, Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion and West Ham United have also asked to be kept informed of the situation.

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur previously held talks, but with their respective summer striker signings, it remains to be seen if they will have any interest.

Jonathan David has told Lille he’ll be leaving for free

24-year-old David has informed Lille that he will not be signing a new contract and will be looking to agree a pre-contract elsewhere.

Understandably, Lille would therefore ideally like to sell David in January if they can, securing some sort of fee for the outbound striker.

English clubs aside, Juventus, Atalanta, Marseille, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are also looking closely at David – he certainly won't be short of options.

Right now, clubs are interested in signing Wilson from Newcastle, and perhaps David could be the perfect replacement, a player with a much better injury record. 

Isak rarely stays fit for a whole season and Wilson isn't known for his consistent availability either, a duo who don't quite complement each other in that regard.