Erik ten Hag can finally sign 'powerful' 23yo star, he's 'ready to accept' United move - report
Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee is prepared to accept a move to Manchester United in the near future, according to Italian publication Corriere di Bologna (page 8).
The Red Devils have been searching for a new striker in recent weeks and Zirkzee now appears as the priority target for manager Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman has already spoken with the 23-year-old.
It is now reported that Bologna are preparing for his departure. The former Bayern Munich youngster is ‘ready to accept’ United, who are willing to pay his £34 million release clause.
Bologna, who have qualified for the Champions League next season, have identified Fotis Ioannidis, Thijs Dallinga, Jonathan Burkardt and Georges Mikautadze as targets to replace Zirkzee.
United in pole position to land Zirkzee
AC Milan were initially considered front-runners to sign Zirkzee, but they hit a roadblock after refusing to meet the £13m commission demanded by his representative Kia Joorabchian.
United, on the other hand, have no problem in paying the transfer fee and commission. Hence, the Rossoneri have lost the race for the striker and they are looking at alternatives.
Zirkzee has now given the green light to join the Red Devils and a transfer could be formally finalised in the coming days. The 23-year-old should be a quality acquisition for the club.
He managed 19 goal contributions from 37 outings for Bologna last term, but also impressed with his high pressing, dribbling skills, link-up play and pace on the counter-attack.
Zirkzee is also blessed with the ability to create chances from deeper attacking positions. He managed to register 11 big chances in Serie A last term which was the joint fourth highest.
The striker, who was described as ‘powerful‘ by Bayern II manager Holger Seitz, should be an ideal competitor to Rasmus Hojlund. The duo could be rotated up front next term.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com