Manchester United have finalised the transfer of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee in a deal valued at over €40 million, the club announced on Sunday.
Zirkzee has signed a contract with United that will keep him at the club until June 2029, with an option to extend for an additional season.
“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,” Zirkzee said in a statement released on Manchester United website.
“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.”
Zirkzee is Manchester United’s first signing of the summer.
The 23-year-old Netherlands striker scored 12 goals and provided seven assists as Bologna qualified for the Champions League last season and was a target for several clubs, including AC Milan, last season’s Serie A runners-up. He will compete with Rasmus Højlund for the starting striker spot at Old Trafford next season.
“Securing a forward to enhance our already strong group of attacking players was a key aim for this summer,” United sporting director Dan Ashworth said in the statement. “We are delighted that we’ve managed to sign a player of Zirkzee’s calibre this early in the transfer window.
“Zirkzee is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impact for Manchester United. His ability and desire to grow into a world-class player mean that he will be a great addition to the squad we are building for the exciting season ahead and beyond.”
