Manchester United considering triggering Joshua Zirkzee's release clause

Manchester United appear to be closing in on the signing of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee this summer.

Following the departure of Anthony Martial, only Rasmus Hojlund remains as striker.

Clearly, United will need to bring in at least one more striker in order to support Hojlund and ensure the rising star is not overworked in the upcoming season.

At just 23 years old, Zirkzee is an ideal signing for United this summer, with his best years still ahead of him if properly developed and supported by his club.

The Dutch striker has scored 11 goals in Serie A this season. Notably, five of his goals were scored with his left foot and the other six were scored from his favored right foot, showing his ability to position himself two feet in front of the goal.

He also put in a strong performance in his three Coppa Italia games this season, scoring one goal and providing two assists. (Statistics via Sofascore)

Zirkzee’s contributions this season were particularly valuable as he helped Bologna finish in fifth place in the league, securing the club a coveted place in the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 1964.

It appears United have recognized Zirkzee’s vital contribution to goals, with the Telegraph reporting that the club are considering triggering his €40m release clause to bring him to Old Trafford this summer.

While it’s certainly an affordable price, convincing the youngster to sign for United may prove more difficult than expected, with other elite European clubs also expressing interest in him.

According to the Telegraph report, AC Milan and Juventus are also circling Zirkzee, while Arsenal could also take the opportunity to sign him after another target of theirs and United, Benjamin Sesko, signed a new contract with RB Leipzig.

Additionally, Bayern Munich could still choose to exercise the buyout clause they inserted into Zirkzee’s deal upon his move to Bologna in August 2022.

AC Milan appear to be United’s fiercest competition in the race for Zirkzee following reports they have taken “decisive steps” to sign the Dutchman.

Yet one major obstacle deterred Milan from completing the deal, namely the €15 million fee demanded by the player’s agent, Kia Joorabchian.

While this signing bonus is not an insurmountable expense, United will have to tread lightly given their limited finances. Although the good news came in the form of a reported increase in the transfer budget to £140m, which is significantly higher than expected, €15m, or £12.6m on agents’ fees, could pose a significant hindrance if United wish to pursue multiple signings and their efforts to rid themselves of unwanted players do not go as planned.

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