Man Utd ‘near first INEOS switch’ with tremendous agent Joorabchian key to maneuver
Manchester United are reportedly on the brink of securing a £34million deal for Bologna’s star striker Joshua Zirkzee.
The development comes after the player’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, threw a spanner in AC Milan’s pursuit. Reports suggest Zirkzee could be the first signing under the INEOS era at Old Trafford, amid complications with several centre-back targets as the summer transfer window kicks off.
United have reportedly identified a striker, along with a centre-back and central midfielder, as their top priority positions to bolster this summer. Zirkzee seems to have been singled out at the top of the striker wishlist, especially with Anthony Martial’s contract set to expire on July 1.
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According to i Sport, United are closing in on Zirkzee’s signature as Milan begins to explore other options. Negotiations have reportedly commenced with the 23 year old’s agent, who has agreed to demand a lower fee from United than Milan due to his strained relationship with the latter, report the Daily Express.
The report suggests Joorabchian was demanding around £12m from the San Siro giants, but is prepared to offer significantly reduced terms to their rival suitors. He is believed to be unlikely to lower his asking price to Milan, making United favourites to clinch a deal for Zirkzee.
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The Red Devils are reportedly poised to activate Zirkzee’s £34m release clause, which could prove to be a bargain in the coming years. He was said to be keen on staying in Italy with Milan, who have been circling for a long time amid his impressive exploits in Serie A.
Milan, along with Bologna, can offer Champions League football next season, while United will be playing in the Europa League after finishing eighth in the Premier League but winning the FA Cup. However, if the seven-time European champions withdraw from the race, Zirkzee is expected to end up at Old Trafford once his Euro 2024 duties are over.
The Dutch international was a late addition to Ronald Koeman’s squad in Germany, having initially been overlooked. He has yet to play in his country’s first two Group D matches – a 2-1 victory against Poland and a goalless draw with France.
Memphis Depay is Koeman’s preferred striker, with ex-United loanee Wout Weghorst being his top backup option, netting the decisive goal against Poland as a substitute. Zirkzee’s participation in Euro 2024 may delay a potential transfer, but United appear to be positioning themselves to secure his services swiftly once the Netherlands’ campaign concludes.
He would then compete with Rasmus Hojlund for a starting spot next season, providing two young options with different strengths.
