Premier League newcomers Fulham are reportedly interested in Bayern Munich striker Joshua Zirkzee.
According to Sport1, London minnows Fulham are keeping tabs on a summer move for Bayern Munich striker Joshua Zirkzee.
The 21-year-old came through the ranks at several Dutch clubs before moving to Bayern Munich in 2017. Zirkzee initially enjoyed a short spell in the club’s reserves before making his senior bow in the UEFA Champions League against Tottenham Hotspur in 2019.
Zirkzee has since made 17 appearances for the Bavarian giants, scoring one goal and assisting one more. While it is by no means a poor return, the youngster’s chances of garnering regular playtime at the Allianz Arena are difficult given the attacking riches at Bayern Munich’s disposal.
Despite losing Robert Lewandowski, Die Roten extended Serge Gnabry’s contract and also brought in Sadio Mane. The duo add to the likes of Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala, Thomas Muller and Kingsley Coman. This gives Julian Nagelsmann a frontline that is rich in quality and depth.
Zirkzee is better off securing regular game time elsewhere than settling for being a part-time player for Bayern Munich. Mathys Tel became the second youngest Bundesliga debutant for Bayern this week against Eintracht Frankfurt, adding another barrier in Zirkzee’s path. Fulham could allow him to play regularly and continue his development as a top-tier footballer.
Capable of also playing on the right wing or as an attacking midfielder, the Dutchman is an excellent finisher who can be lethal upfront. While Zirkzee does lack the prowess to compete aerially, there is enough time for him to develop that aspect. Having him learn from Aleksandar Mitrovic at Craven Cottage could help him and Fulham in that regard.
The Cottagers were handed a tough task against Liverpool on the opening day and held the Merseyside giants to a 2-2 draw. Marco Silva’s side have the potential to put up a show this season but lack the strength in depth needed for a sustained challenge.
Zirkzee is keen to move to England, and his agent Kia Joorabchian is a familiar face in the Premier League circles. Bayern Munich are open to selling the Dutch forward, and with his contract running out in 2023, the time is ripe for them to sell him this summer.
Fulham have a squad that has the right balance of youth and experience. Zirkzee’s addition will hand Silva another prospect who could go on to become a leading player for them in the years to come.