Joshua Zirkzee Sets Sights on Manchester United Shirt Number
Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee, and the Dutchman has already told the club his dream shirt number. According to reports, Zirkzee has chosen the iconic No.9 jersey, which is currently available after Anthony Martial’s departure.
The 23-year-old has been a target for United all summer, and it seems like a deal is imminent. The Red Devils are willing to pay £35million to secure Zirkzee’s services, which is slightly more than his £33.6million release clause. However, the agreement is reportedly being made in exchange for more favorable payment terms.
Personal terms have also been agreed upon, with Zirkzee expected to undergo a medical this week before signing a five-year contract with the option of a further year. The striker netted 12 goals and registered seven assists for Bologna last season, helping the team qualify for the Champions League.
Should Zirkzee join United, he will likely face competition for the No.9 shirt from Rasmus Hojlund, who donned the number for Denmark at Euro 2024. Hojlund currently wears the No.11 shirt for Manchester United, but may want to make the switch to the iconic No.9.
Matthijs de Ligt Wants United Move
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt has reportedly told Manchester United that he wants to join the club immediately. De Ligt has spent two seasons at Bayern, playing 73 times and scoring five goals. He also played under United boss Erik ten Hag at Ajax, where they won the Eredivisie in 2019 and reached the Champions League semi-final.
Donny van de Beek Completes Permanent Move
In other transfer news, Donny van de Beek has completed a permanent move to La Liga outfit Girona. The Dutchman struggled in his four years at Old Trafford after moving from Ajax in a £39million deal in September 2020.
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