Man United identify striker as 'primary' target but face Arsenal transfer battle

Manchester United continue to be linked with a move for Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee.

United have been credited with an interest in signing a new striker this summer for several months. A host of names have already been linked with a move to Old Trafford, but no new signings have been agreed ahead of the opening of the summer transfer window on January 14.

Zirkzee has been previously linked with a move to United in recent months. It has seemed for the last few weeks that AC Milan would be the striker's most likely destination, but that looks like it may have changed.

According to Sky Sports, Zirkzee has emerged as United's 'primary' transfer target this summer. It has been stated that the Reds have made their intentions clear regarding their interest in signing Zirkzee.

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The striker, formerly of Bayern Munich, is reported to have a £34 million release clause in his contract. However, United will have to battle Milan and Premier League rivals Arsenal in the race to sign Zirkzee, while Juventus have also been mentioned as showing an interest in the 23-year-old this summer.

United currently have Rasmus Hojlund as their only recognised striker in their squad following the departure of Anthony Martial. Hojlund, who was signed from Atalanta last summer in a £72million deal, scored 16 goals in all competitions in his debut campaign for United.

Marcus Rashford is also capable of operating in a centre-forward role when required, although his best position is typically on either the left or right wing. Manager Erik ten Hag will want to strengthen his striker options this summer should he stay, although it remains to be seen if Zirkzee is a genuine target and, if so, if the Reds manage to beat other clubs to his signature when the transfer window opens.