Man Utd 'exploring move' for Dutch Zlatan - Ornstein

Cameron Smith

• 18 Jun 2024 19:30 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United are exploring a deal to sign Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein.

The Red Devils are reportedly yet to initiate talks with Bologna, but they have contacted the Dutchman's representatives.

Zirkzee, 21, is currently at Euro 2024 with the Netherlands, after a late call-up by Ronald Koeman, and Man Utd’s interest has been described as “advanced” by the aforementioned Ornstein.

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The former Bayern Munich forward has a €40 million release clause included in his Bologna’s contract and he has also been heavily linked with a move to Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.

Zirkzee scored 12 goals and provided seven assists in all competitions last season as Bologna qualified for the Champions League via a fifth place finish in Serie A.

Man Utd are actively pursuing a new centre forward as they look to provide competition for Rasmus Hojlund and Zirkzee is one of their primary targets.

Benjamin Sesko was also linked before signing a new contract at RB Leipzig, while Ivan Toney and Jonathan David are also options for Erik ten Hag’s side.

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AC Milan also want Joshua Zirkzee

Although Man Utd have now stepped up their pursuit of Zirkzee, the Red Devils face major competition from Italian giants AC Milan.

The Rossoneri are hoping to sign the Dutchman as Olivier Giroud’s replacement, with the Frenchman joining LAFC on a free transfer when his Milan contract expires at the end of June.

However, Milan have hit a stumbling block in their pursuit of Zirkzee. His agent Kia Joorabchian is reportedly demanding a barely believable €15m in order to complete the move.

Out of principle, Milan are refusing to pay such a high amount, which has handed hope to both Man Utd and Arsenal.

Zirkzee has been frequently compared to Sweden legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic since his breakthrough onto the senior stage.