Manchester United are pressing to sign Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in January, according to Calciomercato journalist Eleonora Trotta.
The Red Devils have struggled to score regularly in the Premier League this season and they have netted only 18 times from as many matches.
Their scoring record is the second worst in the top-flight and the club definitely need to freshen up their attack in January with a new centre-forward.
Trotta reports that Zirkzee has a release clause worth €40 million in his Bologna contract which can only be triggered with his consent this winter.
A number of Premier League clubs are ‘pressing’ to sign the Netherlands ace, but United are deemed favourites to land the former Bayern man.
Man Utd could make winter move for Zirkzee
The Dutchman joined Bologna from Bayern last year and had a difficult debut season amid injuries. He managed only two goals and two assists from 21 appearances.
However, he has fared much better in the current campaign. The 22-year-old has registered eight goals and provided four assists from 19 games in all competitions.
Eight of his goal involvements have come since early October. He has been pivotal to Bologna’s impressive run in Serie A which sees them fourth in the standings.
Aside from his goals, Zirkzee has impressed with his distribution with an average of 20 passes per game. He also has good dribbling skills and can hold-up play in attack.
In our view, he would be a good mid-season signing with his potential to improve. The big question is whether United have the funds to sign him amid FFP concerns.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s deal with United still requires Premier League approval which may take four to six weeks. Zirkzee’s arrival may depend on investment from the British billionaire.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
