Romano claims Man Utd are ahead in Zirkzee race: “Ten Hag calls almost every day” | OneFootball

Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Manchester United are ahead of AC Milan in the battle to sign Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna at this stage, with Erik ten Hag in constant contact with the player.

Speaking live on Kick Off (via Pianeta Milan), Romano was asked about Milan’s current biggest transfer saga which is the pursuit of Dutch forward Zirkzee who was so impressive for Bologna last season.

At one stage, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that Zirkzee would sign for Milan as they only need to trigger his €40m release clause and personal terms were never a problem. Even the interest of sides like Arsenal and Manchester United did not seem to be a problem.

Then it emerged that the agent is demanding €15m in commissions, which Milan are totally not willing to pay.

“Nothing has changed. And this gives an idea of ​​how complicated the operation has become. In the sense that we continue to wait, to procrastinate, but today Milan is not meeting Zirkzee’s requests. Very high commissions that Milan does not want to meet in any way,” Romano said.

At the same time, the interest from Man Utd has intensified and Romano claims that Ten Hag, fresh from having his contract extended with the Premier League side, has been in almost daily contact with his fellow Dutchman about the move.

“Ten Hag has renewed his contract with Manchester United and calls Zirkzee almost every day. United are thinking very hard about it. At the moment they still don’t have the definitive green light for the operation, but Zirkzee is one of the names on the list. For United to spend 40 million in clause plus all the additional costs, which are more complicated for our clubs, is certainly not a feat. The Red Devils are certainly the favourite team today. Milan are still there, but the only way to close this operation for Milan is if the player’s agent gives up on his requests,” he said.