Manchester United have secured the signing of Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for £35 million (€42.5 million). The Netherlands international, who played a key role in his national team’s run to the Euro 2024 semi-finals, has signed a five-year deal at Old Trafford, with an option for an additional year.
Zirkzee, 23, becomes United’s first major acquisition of the transfer window as manager Erik ten Hag aims to improve upon the Red Devils’ disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League last season. The striker scored 11 goals in Serie A last season, helping Bologna achieve Champions League qualification for the first time in their history.
In a statement on United’s official website, Zirkzee expressed his excitement: “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. 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.”
United’s sporting director Dan Ashworth praised the acquisition, noting Zirkzee’s impressive performance last season, where he outperformed his expected goals (xG) of 9.0 by scoring 11 goals. “Securing a forward to enhance our already strong group of attacking players was a key aim for this summer,” Ashworth said. “Joshua is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impact for Manchester United.”
Additionally, United are reportedly interested in Zirkzee’s Netherlands teammate Matthijs de Ligt, who may be leaving Bayern Munich. Everton have also rejected two offers from United for centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite.
