By Ohuakanwa Chibuzo
In a significant move on Sunday, Manchester United announced the signing of Netherlands striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for a reported fee of £36.5 million ($46.3 million). The 23-year-old forward has agreed to a five-year contract with the Premier League giants, which includes an option for an additional 12 months.
United decided to pay slightly more than Zirkzee’s £33.6 million release clause to facilitate spreading the payment over a three-year period, a strategy aimed at complying with Profit and Sustainability Rules.
Zirkzee made a name for himself in Serie A last season, playing a pivotal role in Bologna’s unexpected qualification for the Champions League. He netted 12 goals in 37 appearances and was also part of the Netherlands squad that reached the Euro 2024 semi-finals before falling to England.
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Erik ten Hag, United’s Dutch manager, played a crucial role in persuading Zirkzee to join Old Trafford. “I am a player who has always dedicated everything to winning; I’m ready for this next challenge, to go to another level in my career and win more trophies,” Zirkzee said. He began his senior career at Bayern Munich and had loan spells with Parma and Anderlecht before his stint at Bologna.
Zirkzee expressed his excitement about the move, saying, “Having had discussions with the manager and the leaders of the club, I know how exciting the future is going to be here and I cannot wait to play my part in achieving success for Manchester United. It is a privilege to join such an iconic club. I have to take a short break now after being with the national team, but I’ll be coming back ready to make an impact straight away.”
At United, Zirkzee will be competing with Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony for a spot in the attack as the club gears up for the upcoming season.
