Yahoo Sports Manchester United agree first signing of Ineos era
Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna.
Zirkzee is set to become the first major signing since the arrival of Ineos as minority owners at Old Trafford after terms were reached with the Italian side.
The 23-year-old has a release clause of €40m (£34m) in his contract at Bologna, though Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Manchester United will pay a slight increase on that figure. The higher fee will allow the Red Devils to pay the sum in instalments over three years, with Zirkzee’s release clause needing to be paid in full.
Zirkzee will sign a long-term contract at United and represents a big boost to manager Erik ten Hag. The forward scored 11 league goals last season as Bologna shocked Serie A to finish fifth and secure Champions League qualification, earning Zirkzee the division’s Young Player of the Season award.
He was a late call-up to the Netherlands squad for Euro 2024 and made two substitute appearances as the Oranje reached the semi-finals.
Zirkzee will add competition and cover for Rasmus Hojlund at centre-forward, following Anthony Martial’s exit at the expiration of his contract.
United continue to push on with transfer plans and are in advanced negotiations with Bayern Munich over a deal to sign Zirkzee’s international teammate, Matthijs de Ligt.
The centre-back is keen to move to the Premier League and discussions are ongoing over a €50m deal. United have also seen two offers turned down for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and are expected to return with an improved third offer for the 21-year-old.
Read – Six times football clubs activated buy-back clauses
See more – Five young talents to watch at the 2024 Olympics
