Journalist: Man United Agree Terms with Top Striker Target | OneFootball

Manchester United Edge Ahead in Race for Joshua Zirkzee

Manchester United have taken a significant step forward in the pursuit of Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, pulling ahead of Italian giants AC Milan. This development, reported by Jason Pettigrove at CaughtOffside, could be a game-changer for the Red Devils as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season.

Why Joshua Zirkzee?

Joshua Zirkzee, at just 23 years old, has shown tremendous potential during his time with Bologna. Last season, he notched up 12 goals and four assists, showcasing his knack for finding the back of the net. It’s clear why Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, is keen to secure his services. With strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford struggling to consistently hit the target last season, Zirkzee could provide the reliable goal-scoring threat that United desperately need.

Zirkzee is not just about raw numbers; his style of play fits well with Ten Hag’s tactical approach. His ability to link up play, combined with his finishing skills, makes him an ideal candidate to spearhead United’s attack. Moreover, Zirkzee’s youth means he still has plenty of room for development, which is a positive for a club looking to build for the future.

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The Battle with AC Milan

AC Milan have been long-time admirers of Zirkzee, but their inability to finalise a deal with Bologna has allowed Manchester United to step in. According to Pettigrove, the Red Devils have already agreed on personal terms with the player. This puts them in a strong position, with negotiations with Bologna now focusing on the £34m release fee and its payment structure.

Milan, aware of United’s lead in the race, are reportedly exploring other striking options. However, they have not completely given up on Zirkzee, indicating that another bid might be in the offing. Arsenal also remain linked with the striker, but sources suggest that Zirkzee is prioritising a move to Old Trafford, rebuffing any potential offers from the Gunners.

Importance of a Swift Deal

With pre-season training set to begin soon, the timing of this deal is crucial. Integrating a new player into the squad is always challenging, especially when they have to adapt to a new country, new teammates, and a different style of play. For Zirkzee, moving to Manchester United would represent a significant step up, and the sooner he joins the squad, the better it will be for all parties involved.

Erik ten Hag will be keen to have his new striker settled in before the start of the 2024/25 season. This will allow Zirkzee to familiarise himself with United’s tactics and form crucial on-pitch relationships with his new teammates. Given the challenges United faced in the attacking department last season, having Zirkzee hit the ground running could be key to a successful campaign.

Zirkzee’s Potential Impact

Zirkzee’s potential impact at Manchester United cannot be overstated. His presence could lift the entire squad, providing a new focal point for their attack. The Dutchman’s ability to score and create goals makes him a versatile asset. With the right service, he could become a prolific scorer in the Premier League.

United fans will be eager to see how Zirkzee adapts to English football. His physicality and technical skills suggest he has what it takes to succeed. If he can replicate his Bologna form, Zirkzee could be the solution to United’s goal-scoring woes.

In summary, Manchester United’s proactive approach in securing Joshua Zirkzee highlights their intent to address last season’s attacking deficiencies. With personal terms agreed and negotiations with Bologna ongoing, United are well-positioned to finalise this crucial signing. As pre-season approaches, Erik ten Hag will hope to have Zirkzee integrated into the squad swiftly, setting the stage for what could be a transformative addition to their frontline.