Barcelona want to sign Real Madrid's PERFECT Benzema replacement

Cameron Smith

• 19 Dec 2023 15:30 CST
• 3 min read

Barcelona have identified Lille forward Jonathan David as a possible replacement for Robert Lewandowski, according to reports in Spain.

The Canada international was expected to leave the Ligue 1 club during the summer after an outstanding 2022-23 season, but an acceptable offer was not lodged and he stayed put.

However, Barcelona have now named David as one of three potential new forward additions as they look to slowly move on from Lewandowski.

Vitor Roque will join the club in January if things go to plan, as per Xavi, while Ferran Torres can operate through the middle and Marc Guiu was handed his debut earlier this campaign, but a more established name has been touted.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, RB Leipzig’s Lois Openda, Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez and David have been sounded out as three possible replacements for Lewandowski.

The latter has just 18 months left on his contract at Lille and therefore could be available next summer as the French side will likely want to avoid losing him on a free transfer in 2025.

A pursuit therefore makes sense, especially considering he has 33 goals and six assists since the start of last season.

Jonathan David - Wanted by Barcelona, but perfect for Real Madrid?

Although Barcelona have entered the race to sign David, their El Clasico rivals Real Madrid would actually represent a better destination for the 23-year-old, according to data analytics experts SciSports.

In fact, Carlo Ancelotti’s side rank as David’s best possible next step if he is to leave Lille, as per SciSports’ Career Advice tool.

Los Blancos have a Club Fit Score of 82, which is better than any other club in world football.

Manchester United would be David’s second-best choice when it comes to picking his next move, while Borussia Dortmund, Aston Villa and Newcastle United complete the top five.

Real Madrid have altered their system this season, following the departure of Karim Benzema, with Jude Bellingham being used in an advanced midfield role and Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo playing as split strikers.

If David were to arrive at the Santiago Bernabeu, however, then he would fill the void that has been left by Benzema.