- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Manchester United are growing in confidence that they will complete the signing of forward Joshua Zirkzee this summer.
Sources have confirmed to HITC that Manchester United are pushing ahead with talks to sign Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee and there is a growing confidence of a deal being struck.
United have been busy recently as the Red Devils have made key additions to the board with Dan Ashworth finally being confirmed as the club’s new sporting director after months of talks with Newcastle United about the 52-year-old.
As well as this, HITC has confirmed that the Red Devils are set to appoint Christopher Vivell in a short-term role to help with the club’s recruitment this summer.
Zirkzee held talks with multiple clubs but United’s plan impressed him
AC Milan tried to seal a move for Zirkzee by July 1, which is when his current €40million (£34 million) release clause at Bologna kicked in. However, Zirkzee’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, was aware of strong interest emanating from England.
HITC understands that Milan had actually come to an agreement with the player but other factors in the deal needed to be resolved and this allowed other interested sides to make a move for the Dutchman.
We have previously reported that Zirkzee has spoke with a number of his suitors to assess their plans for him but the financial aspect is not the key factor for him, rather how he will figure for his prospective new club.
One of the interested parties is United and HITC understands that the player came away from conversations with the club, including Erik ten Hag, feeling impressed by what they had to say.
United ready to make key next steps to get deal done
United are now preparing to take the next steps to get the deal done which involve approaching Bologna once they have reached an agreement with the Dutchman, which the club believe is close.
The Red Devils are of the belief that the signing of Zirkzee will provide a different option to that of Rasmus Hojlund, an option they don’t currently feel they possess in their team.
Meanwhile, Milan sources insist they remain keen on Zirkzee – but they are also starting to look at alternatives including Chelsea’s Romelu Lukaku.
We reported that the Italian giants had been in contact with the Blues over the past week over a potential deal for the Belgian forward.
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