Inter Milan make move for Jonathan David amid heavy competition

Nerazzurri submit contract offer for Canadian striker, awaiting response amid high wage demands and elite interest

Inter Milan have put forward a formal proposal to Canadian striker Jonathan David, who is set to leave Lille on a free transfer. 

The 24-year-old, represented by Nick Mavromaras of Axia Sports Management, is attracting major interest across Europe, with Napoli, Barcelona, Liverpool, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid all in pursuit.

The player’s wage demand is around €5 million net per season (approximately £4.3 million), and while Inter Milan’s offer is slightly below that figure, they are hopeful their recent sporting achievements – two Champions League finals in the last three seasons – will help sway the player.

Oaktree’s market philosophy and the No-Commission rule

While Inter Milan are known for smart free-agent strategies, especially under Beppe Marotta, there's a financial framework imposed by current ownership. 

Oaktree Capital, the American investment fund controlling the club, has made it clear: the club will focus on young, ready-to-perform, and high-upside talents, preferably on free transfers.

But there’s a condition – no commissions, no matter how reasonable or large, will be paid to agents or intermediaries on these types of deals. 

This could be a decisive factor in negotiations, especially with clubs like Napoli and Chelsea willing to offer not just higher wages, but also substantial bonuses and commissions to agents.

More on Jonathan David

Jonathan David has emerged as one of the most consistent attacking talents in Ligue 1. Since joining Lille from Gent in 2020, he has scored over 50 league goals, including 19 in the 2023/24 season. 

Known for his versatility, movement, and finishing, he can operate as a central striker or in a second forward role.

He was born in Brooklyn, New York, but raised in Ottawa, Canada, and represents the Canadian national team, where he's already among the all-time top scorers. 

David is expected to be a key figure for Canada at the 2026 World Cup, which the country will co-host alongside the United States and Mexico.

A move to a club like Inter Milan would offer him Champions League football and a high-profile stage to further his development, though the financial and competitive stakes remain high.

Source: Fcinter1908.it