Manchester United handed Joshua Zirkzee transfer boost but final stumbling block remains

Manchester United have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee with AC Milan looking at alternatives.

Zirkzee, 23, has emerged as a transfer option for Erik ten Hag as he looks to add another attacker to this squad this summer. It was reported earlier this week that United have named Zirkzee as part of a three-man striker shortlist, with Lille's Jonathan David and Brentford's Ivan Toney the other two.

During the 2023/24, he scored 12 goals in 37 appearances and helped Bologna qualify for the Champions League. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with a number of other clubs interested in his services. One of those is AC Milan, who are said to be leading the race to sign him this summer.

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Milan are prepared to fork out the £33.7m release clause in his Bologna contract and have also agreed personal terms with Zirkzee, who is currently at Euro 2024 with the Netherlands. It's understood the ex-Bayern Munich forward is keen to stay in Italy and move to the San Siro with Milan ahead of next season.

However, according to Gazzetta dello Sport (via MilanNews.it), agent Kia Joorabchian's staggering demand of £12.6m has stalled negotiations. Zirkzee is still their primary forward target, but are aware they could lose him due to interest from United, while Arsenal are also keen on signing him.

The Rossoneri now have their sights set on Samu Omorodion, who was on loan at Alaves from Atletico Madrid last season. Milan are considering making a move for Omorodion while still trying to find a compromise with Joorabchian in their pursuit of Zirkzee.

This could open up the door for United to swoop in and sign Zirkzee. But with Zirkzee now at Euro 2024, if United did want to construct a potential deal in the near future, his involvement in the tournament could make that process more difficult. The delay would depend on how far the Netherlands go, with the final set to take place on Sunday, June 14.

Speaking about his future last month, Zirkzee told Sky Sports: "After the holidays we'll see what will happen. As far as I know so far I will play the Champions League with Bologna but I can't say anything.

"There's a lot going on, in the meantime we're thinking about finishing the season well and then we'll come back after the holidays and see what happens."