Man United close in on Joshua Zirkzee deal after new talks - sources

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Published on:

08 Jul 2024, 6:13 am

Man United have made signing a number nine a “priority” this summer and are close to completing a deal for Joshua Zirkzee.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track Podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Premier League giants want a striker to support Rasmus Hojlund for next season.

Sources say that Zirkzee is United’s preferred choice to fit into that role, with the forward having a £33million release clause.

Bologna are convinced that the 23-year-old will be moving on from the club this summer, and talks are advancing over a deal that could be agreed in the next 48 hours.

The 20-time champions will face competition to sign him as AC Milan are also interested, but United are hopeful they can convince him to move to the Premier League.

Man United want to increase their attacking qualities

Hojlund scored 10 goals in the Premier League last season during his first campaign with the club.

But as a team, United struggled to find the back of the net and managed just 57 goals throughout the season.

Zirkzee scored 12 goals in all competitions during Bologna’s 2023-24 campaign and is currently on international duty at the European Championships with the Netherlands.

Another reason the club is looking for a forward this summer is because they are set to sell Mason Greenwood, Football Insider revealed.

In addition, it is expected Jadon Sancho will be departing Old Trafford which will leave Ten Hag with even fewer attacking options.

In other news, Man United plan to sell three first-XI players.

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