Manchester United are in the transfer market for a new striker and it appears they are on the verge of reaching an agreement for their number one target.
Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee has been identified as the priority for manager Erik ten Hag and Libero (page 31) today claim that United are ‘close’ to sealing the deal.
AC Milan were initially deemed as favourites to land the Dutchman and they had agreed personal terms over a long-term contract with the 23-year-old ace.
However, the Rossoneri have failed to agree terms over the commission with his agent. The £13 million fee is deemed to be too expensive for the Milan giants.
It is now reported that Milan are set to lose the ‘race’ for Zirkzee. United are therefore in pole position to sign the striker by paying his release clause worth £34 million.
The Dutchman had a progressive season with Bologna last term. He netted 12 goals and provided another seven assists from 37 appearances in all competitions.
The former Bayern man also impressed with his link-up play, dribbling and pace on the counter-attack. He created 11 big chances in Serie A which was the fourth highest.
Ten Hag has personally spoken with Zirkzee to convince him over a transfer. The striker was leaning towards Milan but he has now accepted an alternate solution, as per Libero.
Zirkzee should be a quality acquisition for United. He is still learning his trade at 23 and would provide strong competition to Rasmus Hojlund up front next season.
Just like Hojlund, Zirkzee has yet to find consistency in front of goal. However, he has immense potential and could become a prolific goalscorer with stability in his career.
Zirkzee, who was described as a ‘powerful‘ striker by Bayern II manager Holger Seitz, is currently with the Netherlands at Euro 2024. He has yet to make his international debut.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
