Manchester United have today announced the signing of Joshua Zirkzee, who arrives on a five-year deal from Bologna to become the side’s first acquisition of the summer.
The Old Trafford faithful had been expecting his arrival this week after reports suggested both clubs had reached an agreement on a transfer fee; despite Zirkzee having a €40 million (£34m) release clause embedded into his contract, United have instead opted to pay €42.5m (£35.6m) so that it can be spread across a three-year period.
Ready to make his mark 🔥
Joshua Zirkzee: welcome to Manchester United ❤️#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 14, 2024
Zirkzee, 23, will reportedly take the iconic No.9 shirt ahead of the pre-season tour and subsequent 2024/2025 campaign, which was previously held by Anthony Martial before his contract expired last month.
Read more: Revealed – What Ten Hag told United first-team ace that made him want to leave this summer
While his newly signed deal already keeps him tied to M16 until 2029, United have the option of activating an additional one-year clause further down the line.
A Netherlands international and Bayern Munich academy graduate, the forward has been sought to ease the goalscoring burden on counterpart Rasmus Hojlund. Fans can be optimistic that the two will work in harmony and oversee a prolific season when it gets underway in August.
Zirkzee’s first words as a Red
The young and versatile attacker said of his transfer: “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.
“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.”
Welcome to the Theater Of Dreams Joshua Z ❤️