United have held ‘talks’ with Serie A club over 22-year-old Arsenal target; his release can be activated in summer

Manchester United have reportedly approached Bologna over the prospect of striking up a deal for forward Joshua Zirkzee.

The Dutch talent has been deemed a target for United in the summer as Erik ten Hag – assuming he’s still in the dugout – will look to further bolster his attack a year on from signing £72 million Rasmus Hojlund.

Zirkzee, 22, has notched eight goals and four assists in 22 appearances across all competitions this season; 19 of which have come as a starter.

After gaining a plethora of experience in his native Netherlands, the striker left for Germany and spent five years with Bayern Munich, where he progressed from the youth ranks through to the senior squad and went on to win a treble in the 2019/2020 campaign.

United face competition from Premier League rival

Florian Plettenberg claims that United bosses have a ‘high opinion’ of the player and after enquiring to Bologna, they were told that Zirkzee’s €40 million release clause can be activated in the summer window.

🆕🔴 News #Zirkzee: The 22 y/o striker is one of the transfer targets for ManUtd in the summer window!

Bosses with a high opinion of his quality and development. This Serie A season: 7 goals and 2 assists ✔️

➡️ #MUFC already inquired about a possible transfer now. But Bologna… pic.twitter.com/r5YfK2SZhP

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 15, 2024

As per The Telegraph, Arsenal are in hot pursuit of Zirkzee this month and could look to prise him away from the Italian side with a tempting bid.