Football

Atletico Madrid Secure Jonathan David on Loan as Thomas Lemar Departs

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 2, 2026, 10:08 IST

Atletico Madrid have bolstered their attacking options by signing Canadian striker Jonathan David on loan from Juventus, while midfielder Thomas Lemar has completed a deadline-day loan move to Elche.

Atletico Madrid Secure Jonathan David on Loan as Thomas Lemar Departs

Atletico Madrid have completed a significant move in the transfer market, securing the services of Canadian international striker Jonathan David on a season-long loan from Juventus. The 26-year-old arrives in the Spanish capital looking to rediscover his best form following a challenging debut campaign in Serie A, where he netted eight goals after his high-profile transfer from Lille in 2025.

The club confirmed the acquisition on Tuesday, highlighting the forward's tactical utility. In an official statement, Atletico praised David for his mobility, his capacity to integrate with teammates during build-up play, and his overall versatility in the final third. The move comes as a direct response to coach Diego Simeone’s request to strengthen his attacking ranks, regardless of other developments within the squad.

A New Challenge for David and Squad Reshuffling

Before his stint in Italy, David established a reputation as a prolific goalscorer during a five-year tenure in France, where he recorded 109 goals in 232 appearances for Lille. At Atletico, he will join a competitive forward line that includes Argentina international Julian Alvarez. Despite significant interest from Barcelona, Atletico maintained a firm stance on retaining Alvarez, ensuring he remains a key part of the club's plans for the upcoming season.

Reports from Spanish media suggest that the agreement with Juventus includes an option for Atletico to make the transfer permanent for a fee in the region of 25 million euros, or approximately 29 million dollars. David’s arrival marks the latest addition to a busy summer of recruitment for the club, joining new signings Morten Hjulmand, Lee Kang-in, Cristian Romero, and Alejandro Grimaldo.

While the focus remained on incoming talent, the club also finalized a departure on deadline day. Midfielder Thomas Lemar has been sent on loan to Elche. The 30-year-old, who spent the previous season on loan at Girona, was deemed surplus to requirements by Simeone. Despite his positive performances during his time at Girona, Lemar does not feature in the coach’s current vision for the Atletico squad.