Manchester United Signs Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in £36.5m Deal
Manchester United have secured the signing of Bologna and Netherlands striker Joshua Zirkzee for £36.54 million.
The 23-year-old forward has committed to a five-year contract with an option for an additional year at Old Trafford. Zirkzee's release clause at Bologna was set at €40 million (£33.6 million), but United negotiated a slightly higher fee to spread the payment over three years, aligning with Profit and Sustainability Rules.
This transfer marks the first acquisition for the men's team since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became co-owner, acquiring a 27.7% stake in the club last December. Zirkzee netted 12 goals in 37 matches last season, aiding Bologna in securing an unexpected spot in the Champions League.
Zirkzee began his professional journey with Bayern Munich after moving from Feyenoord in 2017. He later joined Bologna for around £7.15 million following loan stints at Parma and Anderlecht.
Selected by Ronald Koeman for the Euro 2024 squad, Zirkzee made two substitute appearances for the Netherlands, who were defeated by England in the semi-finals. He was also honored as the 2023/24 Serie A Under-23 Player of the Year.
Expressing his excitement, Zirkzee stated it was "a privilege to join such an iconic club" and voiced his readiness for the next challenge, aiming to elevate his career and secure more trophies.
Dan Ashworth, United's new sporting director, emphasized the importance of bolstering the club's forward lineup this summer. He praised Zirkzee as "an outstanding talent" poised to make an impact at Manchester United, highlighting the player's potential to develop into a world-class performer.
The departure of Anthony Martial in June, following the expiration of his contract, has reduced United boss Erik ten Hag's attacking options. Rasmus Hojlund, a £72 million acquisition from Atalanta in 2023, scored 16 goals in 43 appearances in his first season. However, by the end of the season, Hojlund lost his starting position, with Ten Hag opting for Bruno Fernandes in a false-nine role during their FA Cup final victory against Manchester City in May.
