Manchester United can sign striker target Joshua Zirkzee for €40 million owing to a release clause in his Bologna contract.
According to Italian journalist Eleonora Trotta, Manchester United are keen on Joshua Zirkzee, who has a €40 million release clause in his Bologna contract. The Red Devils will evaluate the situation to determine if they can commit the money required for the 22-year-old attacker.
Manchester United keen on Zirkzee
Manchester United is increasingly looking to sign a new attacking talent in January. The Red Devils have suffered with the form of their current forwards, with few goals to show between them all.
It’s been more than 350 minutes since they last scored a goal in the Premier League as Erik ten Hag might hope for a change in fortune when they meet Aston Villa. However, a new attacker seems essential for the manager to continue his plans for the remainder of the season.
Manchester United have seen links to strikers, with Benjamin Sesko part of their shortlist. In any case, they are not keeping their options closed and remain connected with several other names.
Joshua Zirkzee also emerged as a target lately, with the 22-year-old attacker impressing with his stellar start to the season with Bologna. After a modest first campaign in Serie A, the Dutch U-21 star has scored seven this season and has made a modest contribution in creating goals for teammates.
The 22-year-old attacker could leave Bologna if any interested club triggers his €40 million release clause, as Bologna will not accept anything less. With the price revealed for Zirkzee, it will be up to Manchester United to decide whether they are keen on investing in the former Bayern Munich star.
Two problems that could block Manchester United’s move
Manchester United’s interest in Zirkzee and his subsequent €40 million price tag could have two significant issues along the way. The Red Devils have FFP troubles, which could prevent them from making the substantial investment needed for the striker. A report cited their issue when linking them to Goncalo Inacio, who has a €60 million release clause.
Secondly, Bayern Munich have a buyback and 50% sell-on clause in Zirkzee’s Bologna contract. Theoretically, the Bavarians could sign the 22-year-old attacker for half his release clause and sell him for profit.
Bayern is indeed interested, but so are Newcastle United keen on Zirkzee. Between the two and Manchester United, the Bavarians have the upper hand. Hence, considering the two significant roadblocks, there are doubts about whether the Red Devils will want to invest the money needed to sign the 22-year-old attacker in January.
