Man United sign Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for £36million on five-year deal
Joshua Zirkzee has become Manchester United's first signing of the INEOS era.
The Premier League giants will pay Bologna £36million across a three-year period after agreeing to fork out slightly above his £34m release clause.
Zirkzee has penned a five-year deal at the Theatre of Dreams, with the option of a further 12 months.
He is United's maiden summer signing and their first since British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe completed his purchase of a 27.7 per cent stake of the club in February.
Bayern Munich will pocket 50 per cent of the transfer fee after he swapped the Allianz Arena for Bologna in 2022.
Erik ten Hag has been keen to provide competition for Rasmus Hojlund up top after Anthony Martial departed Old Trafford as a free agent.
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And United decided to press ahead with a move for Netherlands international Zirkzee, with his 11 Serie A goals last season firing Bologna into the Champions League.
The 23-year-old was part of Ronald Koeman's Euro 2024 squad, but he was limited to just two substitute appearances off the bench.
Expressing his delight at joining United, he told the club's website: "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.
"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."
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United's new sporting director Dan Ashworth said of the signing: "Securing a forward to enhance our already strong group of attacking players was a key aim for this summer.
"We are delighted that we’ve managed to sign a player of Joshua’s calibre this early in the transfer window.
"Joshua 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 means that he will be a great addition to the squad that we are building for the exciting season ahead and beyond.
"Having already achieved a significant amount in his career, we will provide Joshua with the perfect platform to reach the next level under the guidance and support of Erik ten Hag and the coaching staff.
"We look forward to seeing Joshua thrive at Old Trafford over the coming years."
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Zirkzee looks set to be one of many incomings at United this summer as Ten Hag aims to guide the club back into the Champions League.
talkSPORT understands that United are closing in on the signing of Zirkzee's Holland teammate Matthijs de Ligt with the centre-back keen for a fresh challenge away from Bayern.