O Manchester United reportedly held talks with the representatives of Bologna star Joshua Zirkzee about a deal to sign him this winter, according to transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg.
After moving to Old Trafford last summer, Rasmus Hojlund showcased his qualities in the Champions League, but has struggled in the Premier League this season, scoring just two goals in 16 league games.
Therefore, it has been suggested that the Red Devils would be looking to bolster their squad by signing an experienced new striker. Several names have been mentioned as potential targets for Erik ten Hag’s team, with Zirkzee being among them.
Now, speaking on Sky Sports, Plettenberg has reported that Zirkzee is “definitely on the list” for Man Utd and they have held talks with the player’s representatives about a deal to sign him this winter. However, Bologna have made it clear that they will not allow the Dutchman to leave the club this month.
But the journalist claims that Zirkzee could leave the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium next summer and Man Utd may look to reignite their interest in signing him at the end of this season.
Zirkzee to Man Utd
Plettenberg also states that Zirkzee has a £34 million release clause included in his current contract, so Man Utd would need to spend a significant amount of money to lure the striker to Old Trafford.
Man United are interested in signing Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee in the summer transfer window 👀💰pic.twitter.com/LWIhgkYJ7e
– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) 25 de janeiro de 2024
The journalist also says that along with Zirkzee, Man Utd have explored the possibility of signing Brian Brobbey in this January window, but the Ajax star will not be leaving late in this window. However, Plettenberg claims that Brobbey could leave Ajax next summer, and Man Utd may look to sign the 21-year-old at the end of this term.
Strengthening the forward department with the acquisition of a new experienced striker would be the right decision for United next summer.
However, neither Zirkzee nor Brobbey have proven themselves at the highest level. Therefore, there is doubt whether either of them would be the right option for Man Utd to bolster their frontline. Hence, it would be better for the record Premier League champions to sign a more proven striker next summer.