"Here we go" - Fabrizio Romano claims Manchester United have agreed deal to sign 23-year-old star
Manchester United have reportedly reached an agreement with Bologna to sign Joshua ZIrkzee as the first signing of the INEOS era on a five-year deal. The Dutch striker will join the Red Devils this summer, ending their pursuit of a new striker.
United came partially under the control of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS Group midway through the 2023-24 season. An elaborate set-up has reportedly been put in place at the Old Trafford. The billionaire has put a team of experts in charge of the running of the club in a bid to change its fortunes.
The first signing of the new club set-up is likely to be Netherlands international striker Joshua Zirkzee, who will arrive from Bologna. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the Premier League side will pay slightly above his €40 million release clause.
Manchester United will sign the 23-year-old on a deal until 2029 with the option of a further year. They will pay the sum of €42.5 million across three years instead of paying his release clause all at once.
Manchester United have been in the market for a new striker this summer, having seen Anthony Martial leave the club as a free agent. The Red Devils sought a player to compete with Rasmus Hojlund for a starting berth at Old Trafford, and they have reportedly agreed with Zirkzee.
The Dutchman seemed destined to replace Olivier Giroud at AC Milan earlier this summer. However, issues emerged between the Italian side and his representatives. Manchester United were careful to agree a deal with him and his representatives before proceeding to enter into talks with Bologna.
Erik ten Hag will be pleased with the signing of the striker, who managed 11 goals and five assists in 34 Serie A games last season.
Manchester United confirm addition of backroom staff
Manchester United have made significant changes to their coaching department as the club has appointed two new assistant managers. Manager Erik ten Hag will work with new assistants at Old Trafford in a backroom reshuffle.
Club cult hero Ruud Van Nistelrooy returns to the club as one of the assistants, alongside former Go Ahead Eagles coach Rene Hake. The duo will replace Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy, who have left the club. They have each signed contracts until 2026, according to the club.
Ten Hag's position was under threat after his side struggled for most of the 2023-24 season, with his FA Cup triumph a timely savior for him. The Dutch manager has penned an extension with the club until 2026 and will be tasked with bringing in more silverware.