Live from FABRIZIO ROMANO via strike90mins. Chelsea’s search for a centre-forward is continuing with the Blues having held talks for Lille forward Jonathan David and Hoffenheim’s Maximilian Beier. The Athletic are reporting that Chelsea have also opened dialogue with Lille over a potential deal for Jonathan David, who has just 12 months remaining on his contract this summer.
Chelsea’s pursuit of a centre-forward persists as the club has engaged in discussions with Lille’s Jonathan David and Hoffenheim’s Maximilian Beier.
Manager Enzo Maresca is eager to bolster his attacking options before the new season, and the club has been negotiating with various targets to finalize a deal. The Blues are also in talks with Aston Villa regarding a potential player-plus-cash exchange for Jhon Duran. Additionally, Chelsea had a bid rejected for Atletico Madrid’s Samu Omorodion.
According to The Athletic, Chelsea has initiated discussions with Lille for Jonathan David, whose contract expires in 12 months. Lille is willing to sell the Canadian international this summer to avoid losing him on a free transfer. The club’s president has confirmed both David and centre-back Leny Yoro will depart this summer.
David has been prolific since joining Lille from Gent in 2020, netting 84 goals in 183 appearances. He was the second-highest scorer in Ligue 1 last season, trailing only Kylian Mbappe. His impressive goal-scoring record has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Tottenham, and West Ham.
The 24-year-old forward, who has scored 26 goals in 49 appearances for Canada, is currently representing his country at the 2024 Copa America.
Chelsea’s interest extends beyond David, as they are also eyeing Hoffenheim’s Maximilian Beier. The 21-year-old emerged as one of the standout performers in the Bundesliga last season, scoring 16 league goals after returning from a loan spell at Hannover 96. His performances earned him a spot in Germany’s squad for the European Championship, and he recently made his international debut in a friendly against Ukraine.
Despite Chelsea’s ‘concrete interest’ in Beier, Sky Germany reports that the Blues are not currently the frontrunners to sign him, facing competition from other Premier League clubs and Bayer Leverkusen. Beier’s contract includes a €30 million (£25.3 million) release clause.
