Manchester United are confident of signing Ajax striker Brian Brobbey, according to The Sun.
The Red Devils have not made any signings this summer, but they are currently working on a deal for Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee after agreeing personal terms with the Dutchman.
This has not stopped the speculation linking them with other strikers. The Sun claim that the club are confident of landing the signature of Brobbey, who is eyeing a Premier League move.
Arsenal are also mentioned as admirers of the Dutch international, who scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists from 43 appearances in all competitions for Ajax last season.
The 22-year-old was a top target for manager Erik ten Hag when he was appointed United’s manager in 2022. Brobbey turned down a reunion to join Ajax from Leipzig.
The striker has personally confirmed the same in multiple interviews and he has also mentioned that United remain a dream destination for him in the long-term.
Despite this, we would be surprised if United make an approach for his services. Ajax are a difficult club to negotiate with. The Red Devils should be well aware from 2022.
They were made to pay a higher fee for Lisandro Martinez amid interest from Arsenal. The club ended up signing Antony for £85 million when he was valued at £51m two months before.
Brobbey recently said that he could be worth £68m after the European Championship. Knowing Ajax’s strong negotiation skills, they could demand a similar package instead of the reported £30m fee.
United are currently planning to negotiate with Bologna for Zirkzee instead of triggering his £34m release clause. We simply don’t see them making a huge outlay on another centre-forward.
The Red Devils already have Rasmus Hojlund in their ranks. Zirkzee is being seen as an ideal competitor and there does not appear the need for a third marquee striker in the squad.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
