Manchester United are plotting a move for in-form Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, although plenty of complications surround the deal.
According to Sport 1 journalist Christopher Michel, Manchester United could target a move for Joshua Zirkzee ahead of other options in January. Erik ten Hag had been searching for a new forward to complement his attacking setup and may approach Serie A club Bologna for their 22-year-old in-form striker.
Joshua Zirkzee’s situation at Bologna
Joshua Zirkzee emerged at Bayern Munich, but they sold him to Bologna for a modest fee. In his first season at the Serie A club, the Dutchman barely made an impact, scoring twice in 19 games. However, he has hit the ground running in the current campaign, with seven goals already this season while being in the sights of many top suitors.
Zirkzee could jump at the opportunity to sign for a big club, with Premier League sides ramping up their chase for the forward. By the time the January window opens, the 22-year-old, in-form striker will have some notable suitors to choose from and might decide to leave Bologna.
Manchester United have now emerged in the race for the forward, also chased by Newcastle United. Zirkzee’s profile entices those in charge of recruitment at Old Trafford, as Erik ten Hag remains keen to add a new striker to his setup.
Manchester United had eyes on Serhou Guirassy but may have shifted away from the VfB Stuttgart man, as per Sport 1 journalist Christopher Michel. He insists the Red Devils have placed Zirkzee on top of their list and could make an approach to start negotiations with Bologna.
Ten Hag wants a new forward to complement his attacking setup and may add something different than Rasmus Hojlund. However, plenty of complications surround a potential move, namely coming in the form of Bayern Munich.
Are Bayern Munich in pole position for Zirkzee?
Bayern Munich have favourable clauses in his contract that let them have an upper hand should they decide to re-sign Zirkzee. As per Christopher Michel, the Bavarians have a buy-back clause and matching rights for the striker, while a sell-on clause will make things difficult for Bologna while conducting a sale.
Another report mentioned that Bayern had a 50% sell-on clause in Zirkzee’s contract. This means that Bologna will look for a massive fee to sell the striker that lets them make a decent profit from the transaction.
In summary, Bayern can sign Zirkzee for half the fee others, like Manchester United, are willing to pay. Hence, if the Bavarians come into the equation for the 22-year-old in-form striker, the Red Devils will find it difficult to sign him.
