OFFICIAL: Manchester United have completed the signing of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna on a five-year contract

Joshua Zirkzee’s transfer to Manchester United marks a significant moment in his career, as he joins the ranks of the prestigious club with a five-year contract and the option for an additional year, highlighting the confidence and investment that the team has placed in him.

The fee for his transfer, amounting to £36.5m (€42.5m), slightly surpasses his £34.4m (€40m) release clause. However, this financial arrangement brings about more advantageous payment terms, ultimately benefiting both parties involved in the deal.

Zirkzee’s impressive performance at Bologna, where he contributed 12 goals and seven assists, proved instrumental in the club’s qualification for the Champions League, a significant achievement after a 60-year absence from Europe’s elite competition. Such accomplishments undoubtedly caught the attention of renowned clubs, including Manchester United, who saw in Zirkzee a unique blend of physical presence and technical finesse, making him an appealing prospect for their squad.

Aged 23, Zirkzee’s exceptional athleticism, demonstrated by his 6ft 4ins stature and remarkable agility, positions him as a dynamic force on the field, capable of fulfilling multiple roles beyond that of a traditional target man. His ability to dictate play, create goal-scoring opportunities, and exhibit speed in running the channels presents an intriguing proposition for his new team.

Furthermore, Zirkzee’s versatility is underlined by his statistics in Serie A, where he excelled in various key areas such as goals from open play, chances created, and successful dribbles, ranking him among the top 10 players in the league for these attributes. Beyond the numbers, it is the potential and the unique skill set that he brings to the table that truly sets him apart, adding a compelling dimension to Manchester United’s attacking options.

With his recent call-up to the Netherlands squad for Euro 2024, Zirkzee’s ascension to the international stage further underscores his burgeoning potential and the impact he could have in the global football arena. This move not only signifies a significant addition to Manchester United’s roster but also heralds the continuation of Zirkzee’s promising journey, showcasing his capabilities and the array of possibilities he holds for the future.