Arsenal’s pursuit of signing a forward ahead of next season could be hampered by Liverpool. This is due to the uncertainty surrounding Sadio Mane’s future.
When asked about his future at Liverpool, Mane said: "I will reply to that question after the Champions League final. Whether I stay or not, I will say it after the Champions League."
If the Senegalese international does depart from Anfield then the Reds may look to replace him with another forward, which could threaten Arsenal. The Gunners are also in need of a forward for next season, and both Premier League sides have been linked to the same players throughout the campaign.
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The Gunners will be in desperate need of a forward in the summer. Alexandre Lacazette's likely departure due to his contract expiring will leave Mikel Arteta incredibly short for striker options for next season.
Eddie Nketiah and Folarin Balogun would be the Spaniard's options despite neither payer having endured a full Premier League season where they have been a regular starter. And even that is if - as expected - Nketiah signs a new deal in the coming weeks. It highlights the need for the Gunners to strengthen in the forward department.
Earlier in the season, French news outlet Le10 Sport reported that the Reds are continuing to monitor Lille and Canada forward Jonathan David ahead of a possible bid. He was a player who has been heavily linked to the Gunners.
Arsenal are long-term admirers of the young striker and their interest in him dates back to his time in Belgium with Gent before he joined Lille in 2020.
The youngster will be available for a transfer in the summer, and reportedly for a £47million transfer fee. Speaking to Radio Canada, David’s agent Nick Mavromaras said: "For us, the objective is to finish the season in Lille, but it will be his last season there for several reasons."
The Canadian striker’s exploits at club and international level in terms of being able to lead his teams to surprising success could certainly be appealing to Arteta. Especially with the £47million price tag for him which could prove to be a bargain.
However, a deal could turn out to be difficult if he is the player Liverpool opts to go for in order to replace Mane. Liverpool will be the more attractive destination due to their recent trophy success and the pull of being in the Champions League.
The Gunners have also been linked to a host of other forwards in the market, as Arteta looks to improve his attacking options. With Mane possibly leaving in the summer, the north London side could have a dangerous competitor in the forward market with Liverpool also looking to improve on their attacking options.
