Newcastle United’s chances of signing LOSC Lille striker Jonathan David are ‘probably a bit more realistic’ than some of the other players they have been linked with, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The highly-rated 22-year-old has reportedly attracted the attention of several sides across the continent following an impressive 18 month spell with the reigning French champions.

What is the latest news involving David?

According to The Mirror, both Newcastle and fellow Premier League outfit Arsenal are keeping close tabs on David ahead of potential summer moves.

The report goes on to state that the Magpies are thought to be in constant communication with the 27-cap Canada international’s representatives with a view to a switch to St. James’ Park.

David – who is valued at £45m by Transfermarkt – has cultivated a reputation as one of the most lethal finishers in Ligue 1 since arriving at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy from boyhood club KAA Gent in August 2020.

In 84 appearances for Lille, the versatile attacker has registered 30 goals and five assists, playing a pivotal part as they claimed their first top-flight title in 10 years last term.

And despite Les Dogues’s troubles in the current campaign, David - who has been described as a phenomenon - has continued to excel, with his 13 league strikes bettering the tallies of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Dimitri Payet.

What has Jones said about David?

Since they became the richest club in world football, Newcastle have been linked with an array of top talent, including Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller and Tottenham hitman Harry Kane.

However, Jones believes David is more likely to be plying his trade in the North East of England next term than some of the superstar names previously mentioned.

Roman Abramovich announces he'll SELL Chelsea FC! Hear full reaction on The Football Terrace...

He told GiveMeSport: “Jonathan David's probably a bit more realistic, but they're going to be linked with again, 15, 20 strikers between now and the end of the season.

“Obviously, they need to stay up first, and then we'll be able to gauge exactly where they'll be shopping.”

What is Newcastle’s current striker situation?

Eddie Howe’s charges snapped up Chris Wood in a £25m deal from relegation rivals Burnley during the January transfer window, but he’s yet to find the back of the net for his new side.

Callum Wilson was previously the first-choice striker prior to his latest injury setback which has seen him sidelined since December.

With the embarrassment of riches now available to Newcastle, though, Howe is widely expected to dip back into the market for a new goalscorer ahead of next season.