‘The Dutch Zlatan’ told to join Arsenal

Carlo Garganese

22 May 2024 15:00 BST
3 min read

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal,, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Joshua Zirkzee has been advised by Frank De Boer to reject AC Milan and sign for Arsenal.

Article continues under the video

The Bologna striker is one of the hottest properties on the summer transfer market after a brilliant season in Serie A.

AC Milan and Arsenal have been reported to be the two main clubs fighting for his signature.

What did De Boer say?

“I have great respect for Arsenal; they have patience; for example, they had it with Arteta, who didn’t start well,” De Boer told Calciomercato.

“At certain clubs like that, you are already out. And they have played very well in the last two years; Inter also play well,” he said.

“If I have to say someone, I prefer Arsenal, because they have the patience to wait for him and give him confidence.”

Zirkzee, who has a release clause of only €40 million in his contract, has been one of the breakout stars of European football in 2023-24.

He led Bologna to a shock qualification into next season’s Champions League.

Likened to Sweden legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Bologna are bracing themselves for a host of bids from big clubs this summer.

FootballTransfers exclusively revealed in January that both Man Utd and Arsenal were interested in signing Zirkzee during the winter transfer window but that it would be impossible to prise him away from Bologna that month.

However, a transfer in the summer is very possible as Bologna accept it will be difficult to keep hold of the striker given his release clause.

Signing a top number nine is a key priority for Arsenal, and they also have the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen, Dusan Vlahovic and Ivan Toney on their shortlist.

Zirkzee in 2023-24

Zirkzee has enjoyed a brilliant 2023-24 season, with 12 goals and six assists in all competitions.

He has been the key man for a Bologna team who have punched well above their weight under Thiago Motta to qualify for the Champions League.

Standing at 6ft 4in, Zirkzee is a giant of a striker who is expert at holding up the ball and bringing others into play.

He is strong at protecting the ball with his back to play, but he is also excellent technically, boasting quick feet and able to move out of tight spaces.