Atletico Madrid consider permanent deal for Jonathan David after flying start

Atletico Madrid are considering making Jonathan David’s loan move permanent after the Canada striker made an immediate impact during the opening part of the season.

David joined the Spanish club from Juventus on a season-long loan and has needed little time to settle in at the Metropolitano. According to Relevo, he has scored three goals and provided two assists in 251 minutes for the Rojiblancos.

His early form has reportedly encouraged Atletico manager Diego Simeone to pursue a permanent transfer. The club are understood to be considering activating a €25m purchase clause to sign David from Juventus.

The move could also have importance beyond Atletico Madrid’s performances on the pitch. Relevo describes the potential deal as a strategic one for the Spanish club, which also owns Atletico Ottawa in Canada.

Atletico view the North American market as one of the most important areas for future growth, with David’s profile potentially strengthening the club’s presence in the region. The Canadian forward’s performances have already given the move a strong sporting dimension.

David has also made a notable start to his Atletico career in La Liga. He became only the seventh player in the club’s history to score in each of his first three league appearances, and the first to achieve the feat since 1995.

The 26-year-old arrived at Juventus after leaving French club Lille on a free transfer. His first season in Italy proved difficult, with David scoring eight goals and registering five assists in 47 appearances for the Bianconeri last season.

Before moving to Juventus, David enjoyed a successful spell with Lille. He helped the French club win both the French league title and the French Super Cup in 2021-22.

David’s international record further underlines his importance to Canada. He is the country’s all-time leading goalscorer, with 43 goals for the national team.

Atletico’s interest in securing him permanently will therefore depend on whether he can maintain his current level during the rest of the loan spell. For now, his three goals and two assists in limited playing time have put him firmly in Simeone’s plans and prompted the club to consider a €25m move.