Manchester United and Arsenal are both tracking the development of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, 90min understands.
Zirkzee rose through the youth system at Bayern Munich but struggled to make the breakthrough at senior level before joining Bologna in 2022. After a slow debut year in Italy, the 22-year-old has shone with a return of seven goals and two assists in 19 Serie A appearances this year.
The Dutchman’s form has understandably piqued the interest of a number of top sides and sources have confirmed to 90min that both Arsenal and United are well aware of Zirkzee’s exploits for Bologna this season.
The two sides will continue tracking Zirkzee heading up to the summer transfer window, when both are expected to make final decisions on striker targets. Manchester United have even held some initial talks.
United’s interest is endorsed by INEOS, who will take sporting control in January. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s company have previously looked at Zirkzee as a potential target for French side Nice, who they also own.
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Reports have claimed that Zirkzee’s contract with Bologna includes a €40m release clause but club director Marco Di Vaio has confirmed that option exists only for former employers Bayern.
“We wouldn’t answer calls anyway,” Di Vaio told La Gazzetta dello Sport late last month. “[Zirkzee] is unlike anyone else, a unique piece.
“[The clause] only applies to Bayern. For other clubs, the price is variable.”
Zirkzee, who remains under contract with Bologna until 2026, has been an integral part of his side’s push for Champions League qualification. Thiago Motta’s side are seventh in the standings but sit just two points behind Fiorentina in fourth.
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