Man United have completed the signing of Joshua Zirkzee, their first of the 2024 summer transfer window.
The Dutch striker joins from Bologna after helping the Serie A side qualify for the Uefa Champions League for the first time in 60 years last season
The 23-year-old had been linked with Arsenal and Chelsea as well as the top clubs in Italy, but he has put pen to paper on a five-year deal worth just over £35 million (€42.5m).
Zirkzee had a release clause in his contract set at £33.6m (€40m), but Man United paid a higher fee in order to get the deal done.
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The former Bayern Munich player scored 11 league goals and provided four assists for the Rossoblu, helping them finish fifth in the table.
Half of the transfer fee will go to Bayern after they inserted a 50 percent sell-on clause when they sold Zirkzee to Bologna in 2022.
Ready to make his mark 🔥
Joshua Zirkzee: welcome to Manchester United ❤️#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 14, 2024
Zirkzee is the first player to sign for Man United since Sir Jim Ratcliffe bought a minority stake in the club through his company INEOS, giving him control of football operations.
The Dutch international is also the first signing under new sporting director Dan Ashworth, who joined Man United following a protracted dispute with previous employers Newcastle United.
Zirkzee, who was named Serie A Young Player of the Season for 2023/24, will provide competition for young striker rasmus Hojlund, who registered 16 goals and two assists in all competitions last season.
Man United may not stop there with the attacking signings, with Ivan Toney also linked with a move to Old Trafford this week.
