Joshua Zirkzee has told Manchester United about his transfer plans amid agent ‘demand’

Manchester United are looking for a new striker this summer and have reportedly set eyes on Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee.

United will only have only natural centre-forward - Rasmus Hojlund - when Anthony Martial leaves upon the end of his contract this month. The club are unlikely to dish out mega money for a new attacker given the £72m fee they agreed with Atalanta for Hojlund last summer.

But 23-year-old Zirkzee might be an affordable option if his rumoured release clause price tag is to be believed. The Dutchman was a late call-up to the Netherlands squad for Euro 2024, having to end a holiday at Disney World early to fly to Germany.

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His involvement in the tournament could stunt transfer negotiations, should United indeed wish to complete a deal. Here is what we know about their transfer interest so far.

Latest reports

While United’s intent with Zirkzee has not yet been confirmed, reports this week claim the club have contacted the player’s agent. The Athletic claims their interest are advanced but talks between the two clubs are yet to commence.

Zirkzee is said to have a number of options on the table this summer, having recorded 12 goals and seven assists in 37 matches last season. However, Gazzetta dello Sport (via MilanNews) says United have hit a snag.

It says representative Kia Joorabchian is apparently demanding an astonishing £12.6m agent fee. For comparison, Zirkzee’s contract reportedly contains a £34m release clause.

What Zirkzee has said

The attacker was asked about his future last month ahead of his Euro 2024 call-up for the Netherlands. “At the moment my mind is only in Bologna,” he said.

“I want to recover from the injury and have some nice holidays in the States with my childhood friends and then we’ll see what happens. I would choose the best for the club. I will only do what makes sense in my heart.

“It’s clear that for me it would be wonderful to defend this goal achieved together [Bologna qualifying for the Champions League]. What we experienced in Piazza Maggiore was unforgettable.”

Other linked clubs

Italian giants Milan are the other club being linked with Zirkzee the most, and are said to be willing to pay his reported £34m release clause.

There are rumours that the attacker wishes to stay in Italy if he had the choice, giving Milan an advantage. Meanwhile, Arsenal have also been connected with interest amid their own hunt for an attacker.