Newcastle United star reacts as Toon target Jonathan David issues farewell video to Lille on Instagram

It is no big secret that Canadian striker Jonathan David is set to leave Ligue 1 side Lille this summer when his contract expires.

The real secret is where he will end up next season, with Newcastle United just one of many clubs interested in the 25-year-old.

Indeed, we've come to terms with the fact that Newcastle is probably not going to be his next destination, but that doesn't mean they aren't going to be in the mix this summer when the scramble for his signature gets underway.

Lille have obviously been holding onto hope that David could change his mind and remain at the club, but that hope has now evaporated after the striker said his goodbyes via Instagram.

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Sven Botman acknowledges Jonathan David as striker confirms decision to leave Lille

Addressing the camera in perfect French, the Brooklyn-born Canadian confirmed his decision to leave Lille at the end of the season and went on to thank his teammates, the staff and of course the fans of the club.

In the comments of the video was Newcastle United's very own Sven Botman, who, of course, played alongside Jonathan David at Lille before his switch to Newcastle, commenting with one word and a heart emoji.

"Player❤️"

Another recognisable name amongst the comments was former Newcastle flop Remy Cabella.

Send Sven Botman to France to do some convincing

Newcastle should be deploying agent Botman to France to convince Jonathan David to join the Toon this summer.

We still think the idea of playing second fiddle to Alexander Isak is what will cause David to move elsewhere, as the Magpies should have Champions League football to offer and no problem with his wages, but not being number one might cause him to look elsewhere.

He has also hinted at wanting to play in La Liga, so that would also rule Newcastle out. But the club aren't giving up and nor should we.