Jonathan David to Atlético Madrid: The Salary Dispute Holding Up Juventus Loan

The Canadian forward has emerged as Atlético’s leading target for an additional attacking option, and recent reports indicate that the player is open to the move. Atlético have now made an official loan proposal, with negotiations focused on the financial structure of the agreement.

The biggest obstacle is David’s salary. Atlético do not want to take responsibility for his full Juventus wages, while the Italian club would prefer the Spanish side to cover the entire amount during the loan.

Why Atlético Want Jonathan David

Atlético are looking to add another forward to Diego Simeone’s squad as they approach the final stages of the transfer window.

David is viewed as an attractive option because of his ability to operate across the frontline while providing a proven goalscoring threat. The 26-year-old arrived at Juventus as a free agent last summer after leaving Lille and scored eight goals in 46 appearances during his first season in Turin.

His situation has changed considerably since then, with Juventus now prepared to discuss his departure.

Atlético's interest has also been influenced by uncertainty surrounding Julián Álvarez, who has been linked with a late move to Barcelona. David could therefore provide Simeone with additional attacking security if his squad undergoes further changes before the deadline.

The Salary Problem Blocking the Deal

David's contract is understood to be worth around €6 million net per year, making his wages one of the central issues in negotiations.

Atlético are willing to pursue the loan, but they do not want to take on the entirety of that financial commitment.

Juventus, meanwhile, would prefer to avoid subsidising the move. That has left the clubs working through the final details of the proposal, including how David's salary would be divided and whether the eventual deal would contain a purchase mechanism.

For Juventus, finding a solution is becoming increasingly important because David's departure could open the door for another striker to arrive.

Juventus Need a Replacement

The David situation is connected to Juventus' own transfer plans.

The Turin club have been considering attacking alternatives, with Joshua Zirkzee among the players linked with a possible move if David leaves. Juventus are also monitoring other striker options, meaning a late transfer domino could develop before the window closes.

That makes the next few hours particularly important.

Could the Deal Be Completed Today?

Atlético are pushing to reach an agreement quickly, but the salary issue still needs to be resolved.

The latest reports indicate that an official loan offer is already on the table, while the clubs continue negotiating the precise conditions. Atlético's proposal has also been described as involving a potential purchase option, although the structure of that clause remains under discussion.

David has reportedly given the move his approval, which removes one major obstacle. The remaining challenge is getting Juventus and Atlético to agree on the financial terms.

With the transfer deadline rapidly approaching, the wage dispute could ultimately determine whether David gets his desired move to La Liga or remains in Turin.