BREAKING NEWS: Manchester United pulls off an unexpected victory as the team prepares to welcome Anthony Martial as a substitute. According to sources, Manchester United have reportedly activated the €40 million (£33.8 million) release clause in the contract of one of their main attacking targets, Joshua Zirzee, and a deal could be confirmed in the coming days as the Dutchman is very interested in joining Manchester United. Manchester United triggers striker’s £33.8 million release clause.

Manchester United are reportedly set to activate the €40m (£33.8m) release clause for one of their main attacking targets. Despite acquiring Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta BC last year, adding another striker remains a key priority for Erik ten Hag’s 2024-25 season strategy.

Hojlund had a notable first season at United, scoring 16 goals, with 10 in the Premier League. Yet, with Anthony Martial likely to leave as a free agent, the team needs more attacking options.

United’s quest for offensive reinforcements has led them back to Serie A, particularly to Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee.

The ex-Bayern Munich player, who struggled at the German club, joined Bologna for just over £7m in 2022. In the last season, Zirkzee was directly involved in 19 goals across 37 matches under Thiago Motta’s management.

Zirkzee’s notable contribution of 11 goals and five assists in 34 Serie A games was pivotal in Bologna’s unexpected fifth-place finish and Champions League qualification. However, with Motta now at Juventus, Bologna faces the potential loss of key players, including the coveted Zirkzee.

The 23-year-old, currently representing the Netherlands at Euro 2024, has attracted interest from Manchester United, Arsenal, and AC Milan. Although Milan is hopeful of keeping him in Italy, Manchester United are ready to meet his €40m release clause after talks with his agents.

According to The Telegraph, Zirkzee has become a “serious” target for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Erik ten Hag recently. Nonetheless, some obstacles remain before he can officially sign with Manchester United, such as finalizing personal terms. AC Milan appears to have made some headway in this regard, but Manchester United might offer a more attractive financial package.

Financially, a £33.8m investment in Zirkzee would be a prudent move for Manchester United, considering their initial transfer budget of £50m before player sales. Standing at 6ft 4in, Zirkzee would provide a significant physical presence in United’s attack and has shown effective finishing skills in Serie A. However, as seen with Hojlund, adjusting to the Premier League can be demanding.

Though Zirkzee, at 23, is older than Hojlund, he still lacks extensive experience, meaning Manchester United might still require a veteran goalscorer.

The potential duo of Hojlund and Zirkzee could be formidable in the future, but if Zirkzee joins, retaining the experienced Bruno Fernandes to offer leadership and creativity will be crucial.