Joshua Zirkzee decides to switch to Manchester United after speaking with Erik ten Hag.
According to sources in Italy, Joshua Zirkzee, a striker for Bologna, is prepared to join Manchester United following direct conversations with Erik ten Hag.
Man United hopes to acquire a new striker during the summer transfer window to challenge Rasmus Hojlund after failing to secure money for a January deal.
Zirkzee is a key target on United’s wish list, but AC Milan has fiercely contested to sign the 23-year-old, who can sign for any team for €40 million (£33.7 million) after his contract with Bologna expires.
The Serie A squad stalled their pursuit of Zirkzee after seemingly leading the race—they even reached a deal with him last month—by refusing to pay Kia Joorabchian, the player’s representative, an additional €15 million (£12.6 million) in commission.
Zirkzee is now getting closer to moving to Old Trafford, while Romelu Lukaku of Chelsea is one of AC Milan’s other striker targets that are now being discussed.
According to the source, United and Ten Hag have achieved a consensus over commission payments. However, more significantly, Zirkzee is now persuaded to go to United after discussing his prospective role with the team.
Giovanni Sartori, the technical director of Bologna, stated earlier this week that the Italian team has already begun the process of finding a successor for the Dutch striker.
“Zirkzee will leave 99.9 percent due to a clause,” Sartori said to Sky Sport Italia.
We have spent months considering who should take his position.
“We will work to replace him; we have some ideas and names already, but it won’t be easy.”
De Ligt, who is reportedly open to joining United, is said to be eager to leave Bayern, since the center-back, who started just 16 games in the Bundesliga last season, is with Zirkzee in the Netherlands squad for Euro 2024.
Bayern is requesting €50 million (£42 million) in exchange for De Ligt, but there is optimism that a deal can be made.
