Atletico Madrid have completed the loan signing of Canada striker Jonathan David from Juventus, giving manager Diego Simeone another attacking option for the new season.
The Spanish club confirmed the deal on Tuesday, highlighting David’s movement, link-up play and ability to operate in different attacking roles.
“David stands out for his mobility, his ability to link up with his teammates, and his versatility in attack,” said Atletico in a statement announcing the deal.
David, 26, arrives in Madrid after a challenging first season in Serie A. He scored eight goals for Juventus following his move from Lille in 2025, a return well below the prolific record he established during his five seasons in France.
Before joining Juventus, the Canada international scored 109 goals in 232 appearances for Lille. His performances in France established him as one of the most productive forwards in European football, but his first campaign in Italy proved considerably less successful.
He will now compete for a place in Atletico’s attack alongside Argentina striker Julian Alvarez. Atletico resisted strong interest from Barcelona in Alvarez and have held firm in their decision not to sell him to their domestic rivals.
That stance has left Alvarez poised to remain with Atletico, meaning Simeone could have both forwards available as the club reshapes its attacking options.
Spanish media reports say Atletico have negotiated an option to buy David at the end of his loan for about €25m (£21.4m). The reports also state that the arrival of another striker was a request made by Simeone, regardless of whether Alvarez stayed at the club.
David’s signing is part of an active summer for Atletico, who have also added Morten Hjulmand, Lee Kang-in, Cristian Romero and Alejandro Grimaldo.
The Canadian forward’s arrival gives Atletico additional flexibility in attack, with the club specifically pointing to his versatility as one of the qualities behind the move. His record at Lille, combined with the opportunity to recover from a difficult first season at Juventus, will now form the backdrop to his loan spell in Madrid.
For Juventus, David’s temporary departure follows a single season in Italy after his five-year spell with Lille. For Atletico, the agreement provides a chance to assess the striker before deciding whether to make the move permanent for the reported €25m fee.
The transfer also adds competition around Alvarez, whose future had been the subject of strong interest from Barcelona. Atletico’s refusal to agree to a sale has kept the Argentina international at the club while Simeone strengthens his squad in several positions.