Manchester United have seemingly overtaken Milan in a keely-contested race to sign sought-after Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee. According to Fabrizio Romano’s latest update, the Dutch starlet has given his ‘ok’ to Erik ten Hag to pursue his signature.
Despite initially promising to join Milan earlier in the summer, Zirkzee has made a U-turn after being approached by Ten Hag. The Dutch manager has identified his compatriot as an upgrade on his current attacking options, urging Manchester United to get the deal over the line.
Though Milan hoped to complete Zirkzee’s arrival shortly after EURO 2024, they seem on the verge of losing this transfer tug-of-war. Like the Rossoneri, Manchester United are willing to trigger the 23-year-old’s €40 million release clause to take the Netherlands international away from Bologna.
But unlike Milan, they won’t shy away from Kia Joorabchian’s €15m request for a compensation fee. His demands have deterred the Italian powerhouse from intensifying talks with Bologna, given they have no intention of quenching the Zirkzee agent’s thirst for money.
Unfortunately, it could cost Milan dearly. In addition to getting Zirkzee’s go-ahead, Manchester United could land another former Serie A. Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt is also eager to reunite with Ten Hag at Old Trafford. He burst on the grand stage under the United boss during their time at Ajax.
De Ligt subsequently joined Milan rivals Juventus before switching to Munich. Alongside Zirkzee, he’s currently at EURO 2024, with the Netherlands bracing up for a semi-final tie against England.
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