Zirkzee to Man Utd: Transfer hinges on Ten Hag, not money

Tom Weber

• Updated: 22 Jun 2024 09:27 CDT
• 4 min read

Joshua Zirkzee will decide his next transfer based on the project put in front of him and not the money on the table, according to a report.

The Bologna sharpshooter is in demand after a breakout season in Serie A, in which he helped his side qualify for the Champions League in historic fashion. Unfortunately, the Italian side are now expected to get picked apart in the transfer market and Zirkzee is just one of many key players who could jump ship.

The Dutchman has a release clause worth just €40 million, which makes him an attractive option. For a long time, it seemed as though a transfer to AC Milan was a foregone conclusion, with the Rossoneri agreeing terms with the 23-year-old and showing themselves willing to trigger his clause.

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However, disagreements over the commission for his agent have put the transfer in major doubt, allowing other sides to swoop in. Juventus, who just appointed Bologna boss Thiago Motta as their new head coach, have been linked with a hijack attempt.

More so than the Binaconeri, Man Utd have been associated with Zirkzee and they have reportedly made good progress in the talks.

Zirkzee wants key role

Though Man Utd are not able to really splash the cash this summer, it has been reported that they are ready to pay the €40m required to sign Erik ten Hag's compatriot.

Now, HITC reports that a potential transfer to Old Trafford won't hinge on the money involved in the deal. Instead, the deciding factor will be whether Ten Hag can convince Zirkzee that the Red Devils are the right club for him.

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It is asserted that Zirkzee wants a clear plan of how he will fit into the team next season and in the foreseeable future. Man Utd, of course, already have €74m Rasmus Hojlund on their books and Zirkzee is not willing to play second fiddle at Old Trafford when he could be a starter elsewhere.

Moreover, Man Utd won't have Champions League football next term, unlike Zirkzee's other suitors Milan and Juventus and even current club Bologna. Ten Hag will face a tough task trying to convince his compatriot to join.