Manchester United have been handed a transfer blow with Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee determined to stay in Serie A.
The Dutch star has been in good form for Bologna this season, registering 10 goals and six assists across all competitions.
United are one of his admirers in the Premier League, but it appears the striker has his sights on continuing in Serie A.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport (page 14), Zirkzee is aware of the interest from the Premier League, but he favours to remain in Italy.
The jump from Bologna to the English top-flight is considered a ‘little too risky’ with the need to adapt to a new competition and lifestyle.
Instead, Zirkzee prefers a more natural transition to another Serie A club. AC Milan are most interested in landing his services this summer.
This is definitely a transfer blow for the Red Devils, who have identified Zirkzee as a future deputy and competitor to Rasmus Hojlund.
Zirkzee has impressed with his hold-up play, dribbling skills and chance creation ability aside from his goal contributions this season.
The €60 million-rated star has started to realise his potential after a difficult first season at Bologna, but United may have to look elsewhere.
Mathys Tel appears an alternative for United, but a deal could be difficult to pull off unless Bayern Munich give the green light to sell him.
The 18-year-old is currently contracted to the German champions until June 2027 and it won’t be easy to pursue his services in the summer.
If the board opt for a cost-effective solution, Stuttgart’s Serhou Guirassy could be signed. He was very close to joining United last month.
United were prepared to trigger his €17.5m release clause, but pulled the plug on the deal as they had no room to invest due to FFP limits.
We won’t be surprised if Guirassy ends up at Old Trafford this summer. He has been brilliant this term with 20 goals from just 18 games.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
