Manchester United Secure Joshua Zirkzee in £36.54m Deal

Manchester United have bolstered their attacking options by signing Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee for £36.54 million. The 23-year-old Dutch forward has committed to a five-year contract at Old Trafford, with an option for an additional year. Despite having a €40m (£33.6m) release clause in his Bologna contract, United agreed to a slightly higher fee to be paid over three years, aiding their compliance with Profit and Sustainability Rules.

Zirkzee's acquisition marks the first major signing since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became a co-owner of the club last December. The forward, who scored 12 goals in 37 appearances last season, played a pivotal role in Bologna's surprising qualification for the Champions League. Previously, Zirkzee had stints with Bayern Munich, Parma, and Anderlecht before joining Bologna for £7.15 million.

Named the 2023/24 Serie A Under-23 Player of the Year, Zirkzee expressed his excitement about joining Manchester United, describing it as "a privilege" and stating he is "ready for this next challenge" to elevate his career and win more trophies. United's new sporting director, Dan Ashworth, praised Zirkzee as an "outstanding talent" poised to make an impact, emphasizing the forward's potential to grow into a world-class player.

The need for a new striker emerged after Anthony Martial's departure in June, and with Rasmus Hojlund's inconsistent form, Zirkzee's arrival is seen as a crucial reinforcement. United manager Erik ten Hag will be looking to integrate Zirkzee into a squad aiming for success in the upcoming season.