Jonathan David Linked with Lyon Return After Tough Juventus Season

Underperforming Juventus striker Jonathan David is reportedly attracting interest from Ligue 1 club Lyon, following a challenging inaugural season in Serie A with the Bianconeri.

David joined Juventus on a free transfer at the beginning of the summer transfer window, after a successful five-year tenure with Lille in Ligue 1, where he netted an impressive 109 goals in 232 appearances across all competitions. However, the Canadian international has found it difficult to replicate such prolific form in Italy's top flight, currently tallying five goals and four assists in league matches this season.

Although David showed glimpses of his capability in January and early February, contributing four goals and two assists in a five-match league run, these have been his only Serie A goals apart from his strike on the opening day of the 2025-26 campaign.

It appears David is now slipping down the hierarchy of forwards at Juventus. He was substituted at half-time during Juventus’s recent 4-0 Serie A victory over Pisa, observing from the sidelines as his teammates secured all four goals in the second half without him.

Recent speculation suggests that coach Luciano Spalletti intends to stick with his 'fluid front three' formation for the upcoming match against Udinese, potentially leaving David out of the squad entirely. The Canadian's playing time is expected to diminish further once Dusan Vlahovic recovers from his injury.

Could David Make a Swift Return to Ligue 1?

There are indications that David might be set for a return to Ligue 1 less than a year after his free transfer departure from Lille. Lyon is reportedly among the clubs considering a move for David if he becomes available during the summer transfer window.

The French outfit, guided by former Milan manager Paulo Fonseca, currently occupies third place in the Ligue 1 standings. Their pursuit of David is believed to hinge on their qualification for next season's Champions League, as the top three teams in France automatically secure a group stage spot, while fourth place enters the play-offs.

While David's transfer to Juventus was technically free, the club reportedly incurred around €12 million in commission and signing-on fees. He also commands a substantial salary of approximately €6 million per season after tax.