Arsenal and Manchester United have received a blow in their pursuit of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee as he wants AC Milan move.
According to a report by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Arsenal and Manchester United are both looking to bolster their attack ahead of next season and they have their eyes set on Joshua Zirkzee. While they are keen on his signatures, the 22-year-old striker prefers staying in Italy and would prefer a move to AC Milan.
Zirkzee’s time at Bologna
Things might not have worked out for Zirkzee at Bayern Munich but he has revived himself since joining Bologna in the summer of 2022. He has gone from strength to strength over the past few seasons and has made quite a name for himself.
In the ongoing season, he has featured in 31 matches and has contributed towards 17 goals. The Dutch striker has found the back of the net on 11 occasions and his recent performances have put him on the radar of multiple top clubs.
While Bayern Munich do have a buy-back option worth around €40 million, Zirkzee has no great desire to return to Germany since it didn’t go well for him last time out. He prefers staying in Serie A and wants to continue to grow without making that big a change.
AC Milan’s interest in Zirkzee
There is interest in his services from AC Milan and the 22-year-old would love to play for the Italian giants as it will give him the opportunity to compete with the best players on a daily basis and provide him with a platform to compete in the Champions League.
Milan have him at the top of their wishlist with Olivier Giroud expected to leave the club at the end of the season. They want a young striker who can add goals and help them in the long run. The Dutch youth international seems to be a perfect fit for them.
While Zirkzee would love to play for Milan, his valuation could be a big problem for them. Bologna value him at around €70 million, a fee that might be beyond their capabilities.
United & Arsenal also keen on the 22-year-old
Meanwhile, there is interest in his services from England. Manchester United and Arsenal are both on the lookout for a new striker. Mikel Arteta is not happy with the output of his strikers and wants to sign someone who can add goals. The 22-year-old will be a great fit for their project which revolves around some exceptional young players.
As far as United are concerned, they are on the lookout for a striker who can support Rasmus Hojlund and given the kind of form Zirkzee is in, he could be a great addition to their ranks.
While both clubs have immense financial capabilities and can surely strike a deal with Bologna, the player is not interested in switching leagues at this stage. He would gladly join AC Milan but a move to United or Arsenal will depend on whether the clubs can convince him about their project.
