Football

Manchester United Close to Sealing £33.7m Deal for Dutch Striker Joshua Zirkzee

Manchester United is on the brink of completing a £33.7 million transfer for Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. The 23-year-old forward is expected to bolster United’s attacking options following a season marked by injuries and inconsistent performances from key players.

Sources from within the club have revealed that United is prepared to pay a slight premium over Zirkzee’s £33.67 million release clause. This adjustment is intended to secure a more extended payment period, aligning with the club’s need to adhere to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). These rules are critical as they govern financial losses and ensure clubs operate within their means.

“The club understands its financial constraints and is committed to disciplined transfer dealings,” a United source commented. This approach reflects a careful balancing act, aiming to strengthen the squad while maintaining financial health.

The necessity for a new striker became evident after the departure of long-serving forward Anthony Martial, whose contract expired at the end of the last season. Martial’s frequent injuries left a void in United’s attacking line-up. Marcus Rashford’s dip in form further compounded the issue, placing a heavy burden on new signing Rasmus Hojlund.

Hojlund, despite his potential, struggled to consistently lead the line, culminating in his exclusion from the starting line-up in the FA Cup final. Manager Erik ten Hag opted for Bruno Fernandes in a false nine role in the crucial match against Manchester City, a tactical move that showed the need for a reliable striker.

Joshua Zirkzee’s journey to Manchester United has been marked by significant development and impressive performances. Originally joining Bayern Munich from Feyenoord in 2017, Zirkzee’s potential was evident. However, he spent time on loan at Parma and Anderlecht before making a permanent move to Bologna for approximately £7.15 million in 2022.

At Bologna, Zirkzee flourished, scoring 12 goals in 37 appearances last season. His contributions were pivotal in Bologna’s unexpected qualification for the Champions League, showing his ability to perform at a high level.

His international experience, although limited, includes being named in Ronald Koeman’s Euro 2024 squad for the Netherlands. Zirkzee made brief appearances in the tournament, including a substitute appearance in the semi-final defeat to England.

Zirkzee’s addition to Manchester United promises to rejuvenate the club’s forward line. His track record of scoring and his experience in top-flight European competitions make him a valuable asset. United fans will be hopeful that Zirkzee can replicate his Bologna form and bring a new dimension to their attacking play.

The move also signifies United’s strategic planning under Erik ten Hag, who is keen on building a robust squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. As United finalizes this transfer, the club’s ability to manage finances while enhancing squad quality will be under the spotlight.

With the new season approaching, Zirkzee’s integration into the team will be crucial. His potential partnership with Rashford, Fernandes, and Hojlund could define United’s success in domestic and European competitions. For now, the anticipation builds as Manchester United edges closer to unveiling their new Dutch striker.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Champions League, World Cup and many more.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Leicester City’s Abdul Fatawu Ruled Out for the Season with ACL Injury

Leicester City winger Abdul Fatawu will miss the remainder of the Premier League season after… Read More

November 22, 2024

“Manchester City means so much to me,” – Guardiola signs extension

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola signed a two-year contract extension at the club, which was… Read More

November 22, 2024

Las Vegas GP Preview

This weekend, Formula 1 will return, and this time around, it's back in the United… Read More

November 22, 2024

Ange Postecoglu calls Bentancur’s action a “mistake” as Spur’s appeal

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglu has revealed that he fully supports the club's decision to appeal… Read More

November 22, 2024

Inter want Meret as free agent as Liverpool eye Thuram

Reports have emerged in Italy that Inter are ready to pounce on Napoli goalkeeper Alex… Read More

November 22, 2024

Celtic Boss set to welcome star forward after injury recovery ahead of crunch tie

Celtic have been handed a timely boost ahead of their Saturday night clash with Hearts,… Read More

November 22, 2024