FC Barcelona show interest in young UCL goalscorer: Is it the right move?

Barcelona eyes Jonathan David, assessing his fit within their strategic plans for next season.
Lille OSC v RB Salzburg: Group G - UEFA Champions League
Lille OSC v RB Salzburg: Group G - UEFA Champions League / John Berry/GettyImages
facebooktwitterreddit

As per the latest, Barcelona has been attentive to Jonathan David and are aware of his contractual situation. He becomes a free agent at the end of the current season.

The Canadian forward has made a name for himself as a consistent overperformer in terms of expected goals (xG). However, his strengths are often reliant on favorable game states, raising questions about his suitability for the club’s long-term plans.


Robert Lewandowski
FC Barcelona v BSC Young Boys - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 / David Ramos/GettyImages

The main thing that will come into consideration for Barcelona is their priorities in the coming summer transfer window. Even though David is such a talented player, he cannot be kept as the main striker of the club. Robert Lewandowski, the present star forward for the team, will have another year on his contract, which complicates things further. Barcelona must think properly so that a proper balance is maintained in the squad and any new signings are in order with the general objectives of the squad.

The signing of Jonathan David could work out for Barcelona, especially if they invest in a left winger, too. With the proper complementing pieces around him, David could fit into this team and give them a bit more depth and flexibility in attack. But one needs to understand that he would not be coming into the team expecting to start games. He would, instead, be a very important option either coming off the bench or in rotation with Lewandowski to fit a more dynamic approach up top.


Ferran Torres, Vitor Roque
Unionistas v FC Barcelona - Copa del Rey / Angel Martinez/GettyImages

Looking forward, familiar questions surround how they manage their squad. A potential big move would be selling Ferran Torres and Victor Roque for profit to fund transfers. Both have been among the mixed successes at the club, but moving them on opens space for fresh talent while further balancing the books of the squad.

Additionally, the development of Alejandro Balde and the younger talent Lamine Yamal is crucial for Barcelona’s future. Balde, in particular, needs an elite left winger to support his game and allow him to flourish on the pitch. Yamal also requires a strong presence on the left side to help him grow into the player the club hopes he will become. Prioritizing the acquisition of an elite LW should be a focus before considering a replacement for Lewandowski.


Jonathan David
LOSC Lille v Real Madrid C.F. - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 / Jean Catuffe/GettyImages

As far as a fit at Barcelona goes, Jonathan David wouldn't walk into the Camp Nou as a nailed-on starter. At the same time, his signing does bring value in a number of ways, including depth and the potential to sell him on for a profit down the line. If Barca can maneuver the transfer market, signing David while bringing in an elite left winger would have them well-positioned to compete domestically and in Europe.

manual

Ultimately, the choice for Jonathan David would be based on the broader strategic goals of the club and exactly how they have envisioned the attacking setup for the future. As much as he presents an interesting potential, Barcelona need to be sure that whatever signings they make fit into the bigger picture. This careful planning will be key to staying amongst the elite clubs in Europe, developing their young talent and creating a team that will contend for top honors over the next few years.