---
title: "‘Mercurial’ World Cup star just proved why Crystal Palace want him"
canonical: "https://readcrystalpalace.com/2026/06/19/jonathan-david-proved-why-crystal-palace-want-him-transfer-news/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Dan Hammond"
section: "Crystal Palace Transfer News"
published: "2026-06-19T16:33:14Z"
modified: "2026-06-19T16:34:14Z"
---

# ‘Mercurial’ World Cup star just proved why Crystal Palace want him

- Crystal Palace eyeing Jonathan David
- Canada striker stars at World Cup
- A hat-trick explains why the Eagles are keen

**If [Crystal Palace](https://readcrystalpalace.com/crystal-palace-club-history-trophies-moments/) are to sign a new striker this summer, they may well opt for Canadian frontman Jonathan David. The Eagles have already been linked with the Juventus star amid uncertainty over Jean-Philippe Mateta’s future.**

David did himself no favours in Canada’s opening 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, putting in a poor display. This had many questioning whether he’d be a good signing for Palace.

The 26-year-old put that game behind him and delivered one of the best individual performances at this summer’s [World Cup](https://dave.sport/sport/world-cup)thus far. Jesse March’s side thrashed Qatar 6-0 in the nation’s first victory in the tournament’s history.

## David delights in Canada’s first win

David was the star of the show, scoring a terrific hat-trick as Canada cruised to all three points. Hitting a superb volley for the co-hosts’ second against Qatar.

The Juve striker added his second from close range after a pinball-like scenario in the box. His third came when he latched onto a loose ball and fired home with his left foot.

[HIGHLIGHTS - Canada v Qatar | Hosts Eye First Win! | FIFA World Cup 2026 (embedded)](https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/n44ndE6mwV0?feature=oembed)

David’s display reminded many of the critics of his quality and exactly why Palace are reportedly admirers. He could be on the move this summer following a dissapointing season in Turin after joining the Old Lady as a free agent.

## A potential Mateta heir

Palace may have a decision to make over the future of [Jean-Philippe Mateta](https://readcrystalpalace.com/2026/06/10/oliver-glasner-ac-milan-jean-philippe-mateta-transfer/). The Frenchman has a year left on his contract and is on the radar of AC Milan, Juve, Manchester United and Newcastle United.

If Mateta is sold, the Eagles will surely look for a replacement, and David could be ideal. [Described](https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/jonathan-david-hat-trick-ismael-kone-canada-world-cup-qatar/bltd8d6d5077fa8305e)as ‘mercurial’ he has long been regarded as an exciting attacking talent.

David perhaps hasn’t become a world-class name or hit the heights of fellow countryman Alfonso Davies. But he is certainly a decent goalscorer who could thrive under [Pierre Sage](https://readcrystalpalace.com/2026/06/15/crystal-palace-news-pierre-sage/).