Joshua Zirkzee’s transfer to Manchester United has finally been confirmed, becoming the club’s first signing in the INEOS era.
The Red Devils will pay Bologna £36 million over three years after agreeing to shell out just over his £34 million release clause.
3
Zirkzee has signed a five-year contract with the Theatre of Dreams with an option for a further 12 months.
Unbelievable but true: Bayern Munich will pocket 50 percent of the transfer fee after swapping the Allianz Arena for Bologna in 2022.
Erik ten Hag wanted to compete with Rasmus Hojlund at the top after Anthony Martial left Old Trafford as a free agent.
And United decided to push ahead with the transfer of Dutch international Zirkzee, who scored 11 goals in Serie A last season to catapult Bologna into the Champions League.
The 23-year-old was part of Ronald Koeman’s squad for the 2024 European Championship, but only made two appearances as a substitute.
He expressed his delight at joining United, telling the club’s website: “After speaking to the manager and club officials, I know how exciting the future will be here.”
“And I can’t wait to play my part in Manchester United’s success.
“I am a player who has always given everything to win. I am ready for the next challenge to reach the next level in my career and win more trophies.
3
3
“It is a privilege to join such a legendary club. I now have to take a short break after my time with the national team, but I will come back immediately and be ready to make a difference.”
United’s new sporting director Dan Ashworth said of the signing: “Signing a striker to strengthen our already strong group of attacking players was a key objective for this summer.”
“We are delighted to have been able to sign a player of Joshua’s calibre so early in the transfer window.
“Joshua is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impression at Manchester United.
“His ability and desire to develop into a world-class player make him a great addition to the squad we are building for the upcoming and exciting season and beyond.
“Having already achieved a lot in his career, we will provide Joshua with the perfect platform to reach the next level under the guidance and support of Erik ten Hag and the coaching staff.
“We look forward to seeing Joshua succeed at Old Trafford in the years to come.”
Zirkzee is likely to be one of many new signings at United this summer as Ten Hag aims to lead the club back to the Champions League.
The Pitch Prospect understands that United are close to signing Zirkzee’s Dutch teammate Matthijs de Ligt and the centre-back is looking forward to a new challenge away from Bayern.