According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United are close to signing 23-year-old Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna.

Manchester United Close to Signing Joshua Zirkzee

Zirkzee Gives Green Light to Old Trafford Move

Manchester United have recently secured the future of manager Erik ten Hag, with the Old Trafford club triggering a one-year extension in Erik ten Hag’s contract, keeping him at the club until 2026. It looks like the club are now ready to make their move in the transfer window, with Romano reporting that the Red Devils have received a green light from Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt to join the club with salaries agreed with both players.

The update also mentions that both players have spoken to Ten Hag, with Manchester United now ready to advance on negotiations with Bologna and Bayern Munich respectively.

Details of Zirkzee Deal

The Dutch forward reportedly has a release clause of £34 million, which has to be paid in full, with the Red Devils reportedly looking at whether to activate the clause or try to negotiate a lower price. The transfer fee appears to be the only sticking point in the deal, with wages and agent commissions agreed.

The Dutch forward scored 11 goals and provided five assists in 34 Serie A games last season, which saw him earn a call-up to the Dutch Euro 2024 squad. There’s so much more to his game than goals. His hold-up play is impressive, which makes him adept at bringing teammates into play. He also has a great first touch and excellent movement, which sees him drop into little pockets of space to link everything together.

Man Utd Close to Signing Matthijs de Ligt

As mentioned, Manchester United have also received a green light from De Ligt to join the Old Trafford club. Signing De Ligt would undoubtedly strengthen Ten Hags team in defence, as he would bring leadership and experience to a team that struggled to keep clean sheets last season. The Dutchman dominates in the air and times his tackles impressively. He is also adept at playing out from the back, making him a great potential outlet for Andre Onana.