Recent reports have claimed that Newcastle United are preparing a move for Lille marksman, Jonathan David, with manager Eddie Howe and sporting director Dan Ashworth seemingly keen to further bolster his attacking options.

The Magpies only recently brought in fellow forward Alexander Isak on a club-record deal from Real Sociedad, although it would appear that those at St James’ Park wish to strengthen their firepower in the ongoing push for Champions League football.

The Canadian - who is set to feature for his country at the World Cup - has been in sparkling form in France in recent times, having scored 41 goals in just 111 games for his current side since joining from Belgian outfit Gent in 2020.

After plundering 15 league goals last term, the 22-year-old has followed that up with nine goals and three assists in just 15 top-flight games so far this term, with only three players having netted more goals in Ligue 1 to date.

The New York-born sensation has been just as prolific on the international stage with 22 goals in just 34 caps for his country thus far, with it set to be no surprise if the highly-rated “phenom” - as described by journalist Tony Marinaro - bolsters that tally in the coming weeks in Qatar.

Should the northeast side manage to get the £39m-rated man in the door in the winter window, the hope will be that the “class” asset - as dubbed by national team boss John Herdman - can replicate the impact of current Newcastle star, Bruno Guimaraes.

The Brazilian sensation also made the move from France during the January window earlier this year, having joined for a reported fee of around £40m from Lyon after two years with Les Gones.

The 25-year-old showed little sign of struggle in adapting to life in English football, quickly cementing himself in Howe’s side to lead the charge away from danger in the second half of last term, scoring five goals in just 17 league appearances.

That form - which caught the interest of La Liga giants Real Madrid over the summer - has continued into the current campaign, with the “world-class” midfielder, as described by teammate Dan Burn, having provided five goal contributions in 12 league outings.

The 6-foot magician’s success story showcases the benefits of bringing in a quality asset during the mid-season window, with Guimaraes having quickly rubbished any potential fears over his ability to make the transition to the Premier League.

That should serve as encouragement in the case of David, with Newcastle potentially able to pull off another transfer masterclass with a Ligue 1 addition.