The player that took Serie A by storm last season while playing for Bologna, Joshua Zirkzee, just joined Manchester United in exchange for 42 million euros. The Red Devils have beat teams as big as Milan, Juventus or Inter in the race to sign him.
The 23-year-old Dutch striker has had a phenomenal 2023/2024 season, as he has been one of the main reasons for Bologna’s return to the Champions League 60 years later. A historical feat that will make all of the club’s fans remember him fondly for the rest of their lifes.
Zirkzee has managed to score 12 goals in his last season in Italy. In addition, he has dished out six assists in the 37 matches he has played. He is an exceptional, physical (6 feet and 3 inches tall) and quick player that stands out due to his mobility and skill with both feet. In fact, out of his 12 goals this season, he has scored six with his left foot and another six with his right.
As a result, Joshua Zirkzee is an absolute headache for the opposing defenders, who do not know which side to focus on as he shoots equally well with both feet.
Joshua Zirkzee, a rising star:
The Dutchman has stood out since his youth days at Bayern Munich’s academy, and the German club were aware of his great potential. As a result, when they sold him to Bologna for eight million euros two seasons ago, they included a clause that granted 50% of the fee of a future sale of the player. Consequently, the Bavarians are entitled to 21 of the 42 million euros the Italian side will get from the transfer.
After two loan spells at Parma and Anderlecht to develop as a player, he has broke out as a world class player at Bologna.
His good performances have even led him to be called-up with his country’s national team, who have taken part at this year’s Euro. In spite of not being given many minutes, the tournament has provided him with international experience.
A race of a transfer saga:
Manchester United have won the race to sign the player, as there were many teams among Europe’s elite that were interested in adding the attacker to their roster for the upcoming season.
The list was composed, amongst others, of teams like Inter Milan, Bayern Munich, Juventus and AC Milan. The latter were on the verge of paying the release clause of the Dutchman’s contract, but they decided to back away from the deal after disputes arose between the club and Zirkzee’s agent, who requested very high comissions that the Italian side were not willing to pay.
As a result, the Red Devils took advantage of the situation and were faster than any other clubs to secure the first signing of the Ineos era.
Fans at Old Trafford cannot wait to see this amazing player running down the wing while defending their team’s jersey.
A very promising signing to start off this new era at Manchester United.
Translated by Nuño Alonso.
Main image: @Bolognafc1909.
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