Manchester United’s chances of signing Joshua Zirkzee have improved as AC Milan shifts their focus towards a Newcastle-targeted alternative.
The Red Devils have identified Zirkzee, the Netherlands and Bologna forward, as a top transfer target. Previously, reports indicated that United were considering triggering a £34 million release clause in his contract.
Competition for Zirkzee’s signature posed a potential hurdle. AC Milan, among others, were also linked with him, along with Premier League rivals Arsenal.
However, AC Milan appears to be eyeing a different player now. According to Mail Online, the Serie A club has expressed interest in Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
The English striker may leave Goodison Park this summer, with only a year left on his contract. While Everton has offered him new terms, Calvert-Lewin is open to exploring new opportunities.
If Milan pursues Calvert-Lewin, they might abandon their interest in Zirkzee, giving Manchester United a clear path. Conversely, this move could impact Newcastle negatively.
Eddie Howe’s side has shown interest in Calvert-Lewin and was in discussions with Everton for a £35 million deal. Meanwhile, updates on Zirkzee’s future continue to emerge.
Former Netherlands star Bryan Roy recently suggested that Zirkzee might not be ready for a significant move yet. Speaking to Tutto Juve, Roy said, “Zirkzee, unlike [Teun] Koopmeiners, is not yet ready for the big leap. He is still young and needs another year in Bologna to score a lot. It would be important to test himself in the same team but with a different coach [after Thiago Motta left to join Juventus]. Then he can think about what to do.”
Zirkzee’s Bologna teammate, Santiago Castro, also indicated that Milan has not finalized the move. Speaking to Radio Velez 670, Castro said, “A player who surprises me every day is Zirkzee. He is truly complete: he plays, he has strength, he’s a crack and he’s humble. Joshua and I talk a lot, and I’m happy with his rise. Zirkzee to Milan is not finished. If Bologna signs another striker, they will have to continue working to earn their place.”
Zirkzee, 23, has two years left on his Bologna contract and is coming off a 12-goal season in Italy. His performance earned him a spot in the Netherlands’ Euro 2024 squad.
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