Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee is inching closer to joining Manchester United as talks between the two clubs and the player proceed.
The striker was permitted to enter the UK on Thursday evening, with plans to undergo his medical examination on Friday. According to the Manchester Evening News, despite Zirkzee’s Bologna contract having a release clause of £34 million ($43.9 million), United is set to shell out a slightly higher figure of £36 million ($46.5 million) to be paid over three years instead of in lump sum.
The terms of the deal include Zirkzee signing up for a five-year term until 2029, with an option for an extended season. United’s hunt for a forward becomes more urgent following Anthony Martial’s exit at the end of his contract, leaving Rasmus Hojlund as the only recognised striker on the roster.
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As part of the Netherlands squad that took part in Euro 2024 semifinals, Zirkzee now redirects his attention toward his career post the national team’s defeat to England. This development accelerates the much-anticipated shift from Bologna.
From his recent Instagram story update, Zirkzee expressed his disappointment following the letdown. He wrote: “A big let down last night. It was a dream come true to be part of this team (yet still). I am proud and grateful to wear this shirt. Orange fans, thank you for your support.”
United is also pursuing Matthijs de Ligt, as Erik ten Hag attempts to reunite with his former Ajax defender. The Dutch coach has said: “We are working in the background on the plans with scouting and our staff. We are working on our plan, which is ready, it just needs [us] to execute. I trust the new ownership that they will work as quick as possible and will bring new structures and they can execute.”
Liverpool.com says: Signing a 23-year-old Netherlands international for $46.5 million seems like a bargain for United, but is Zirkzee good enough to play for Liverpool’s big rival? His record is modest, scoring just 11 goals in Serie A last season. Zirkzee is unlikely to become an overnight Premier League superstar, but he’s still young enough to blossom into one.