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Manchester United are reportedly contemplating avoiding Joshua Zirkzee’s release clause and negotiating a new transfer fee with Bologna.
Zirkzee appears to be United’s number one striker target to replace the departed Anthony Martial and provide competition for young Rasmus Hojlund.
The Bologna talisman registered 11 goals and four assists as the Rossoblu clinched Champions League football after a 50-year absence from the competition.
For weeks, AC Milan were leading the race to land Zirzkee. However, the Serie A giants failed to reach an agreement with the player’s agent over commissions, which they found excessive. Kia Joorabchian slashed his agent fees but even then, Milan insisted that he was simply asking for too much.
It’s believed that Joorabchian is prepared to offer United a discount as he enjoys a fantastic relationship with the Premier League club.
Zirkzee is also willing to join the Red Devils and it was stated that the club have offered him a contract worth €6 million per season. The 23-year-old has held talks with Erik ten Hag regarding what his role would be in the team if he were to complete a switch to Old Trafford.
A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United informed Bologna they would pay Zirkzee’s release clause but according to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Ten Hag’s side are also open to alternative payment arrangements.
“Manchester United are working to finalise the signing of Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee. United have agreements in place on personal terms and agent commission, which is sizable but viewed at Old Trafford as fair in the context of an overall package deemed good value for money.”
“Zirkzee’s contract includes a €40million (£34m) release clause and talks continue about the fee. The clause must be paid in full, which is a potential cashflow issue for the Premier League club, and they are therefore exploring whether to activate it or negotiate a price separately.”
“However, Zirkzee is the striker United have decided to pursue and a deal for the Netherlands international is now close to being secured.”
Ornstein’s information is backed by Il Resto del Carlino (via TuttoBologna) who explain that it’s possible United may land Zirkzee without triggering his release clause.
This would translate to United paying Bologna a sum higher than Zirkzee’s €40 million clause but in installments and deferred payments.
It’s important to note that the goalscorer’s release clause remains active until mid-August.
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