Arsenal and Manchester United still want to sign Bologna centre-forward Joshua Zirkzee this summer, according to a report.
Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly still interested in signing Bologna centre-forward Joshua Zirkzee during this summer’s transfer window.
Both Premier League clubs are looking to bring in new strikers this summer, with Arsenal wanting an upgrade on Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah in the final third of the field.
Man United, meanwhile, need to bring in competition for Rasmus Hojlund, with Anthony Martial set to leave on a free transfer at the end of this month.
Zirkzee’s future was the subject of much speculation earlier this year, with Arsenal and Man United both allegedly keen on the Dutchman during the January transfer window.
The striker ultimately remained with his Italian club, but according to Sky Sports News, the two giants of English football are still battling for his signature, with a transfer possible this summer.
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Arsenal, Man United ‘both still interested in Zirkzee’
The report claims that AC Milan are also firmly in the picture, with the San Siro giants currently in discussions with Zirkzee’s representatives over a switch.
There is a €40m (£34m) release clause in the 23-year-old’s contract, making him an affordable target in the current market, but he is not thought to be the leading target for either Arsenal or Man United at this stage.
Brentford’s Ivan Toney is also being linked with both clubs, while Newcastle United could potentially be forced into selling Alexander Isak this summer to comply with financial rules.
Arsenal have allegedly now dropped their interest in Napoli‘s Victor Osimhen due to his substantial release clause, but Bournemouth‘s Dominic Solanke is said to be admired by the North London club.
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Would Zirkzee be a good signing?
Zirkzee enjoyed a solid 2023-24 campaign for Bologna, scoring 12 goals and registering seven assists in 37 appearances in all competitions.
Meanwhile, the Dutchman has managed 14 goals and registered nine assists in 58 appearances for his current side since arriving from Bayern Munich in 2022.
It is difficult to imagine Zirkzee coming in and setting the world alight in the Premier League, but he would certainly be a good option for both teams in the final third of the field.
Arsenal need a genuine superstar in the final third, though, while Man United need an experienced option to help the development of Hojlund, so Zirkzee does not quite fit the brief for either side at this stage.
Milan, who finished second in last season’s Serie A table, could therefore ultimately be given a free run at the forward this summer.