Arsenal hold KEY advantage over Man Utd in Zirkzee pursuit

Cameron Smith

13 May 2024 16:30 BST
3 min read

Joshua Zirkzee, Arsenal, Man Utd, Bologna, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Arsenal are currently leading Manchester United in the race to sign Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee, who has been priced at €70 million ahead of the summer transfer window.

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Zirkzee, 22, has scored 12 goals and provided seven assists in all competitions so far this season, helping Bologna qualify for the Champions League for the first time since the 1964-65 campaign.

The Dutchman has been heavily linked with a summer exit following his impressive form this term, and AC Milan have identified him as their dream replacement for Olivier Giroud - who will move to the MLS on a free transfer when his contract at San Siro expires at the end of June.

However, Bologna’s €70m asking price is deemed too expensive for the Rossoneri as things stand and they are now looking at Serhou Guirassy as an alternative, according to Rudy Galetti.

The Italian journalist has also revealed that Arsenal are currently ahead of Man Utd in the race to sign the 22-year-old.

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Joshua Zirkzee to Arsenal?

Zirkzee wants to play Champions League football next season and Man Utd’s failure to qualify for Europe’s elite club competition could cost them a chance of landing the former Bayern Munich striker.

In addition, Erik ten Hag faces an uncertain future at Old Trafford and the Red Devils’ interest in Zirkzee could diminish if the Dutchman is sacked this summer.

According to Galetti, Arsenal have already approached Zirkzee’s entourage and are the best placed Premier League team to sign him.

Furthermore, Bologna’s huge asking price means he is likely to remain at the Serie A side or seal a move to England due to the financial problems of many Italian clubs.

Bologna will reportedly hold talks with Thiago Motta in the coming days too as they seek to retain the services of Zirkzee and their exciting, young manager.