Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee has become a primary target for the Manchester outfit, with Arsenal and AC Milan also interested in his signature.
That’s according to Sky Sports – with the 23-year-old reportedly one of several options that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his newly assembled team are considering ahead of Friday’s transfer window opening.
As per Sky’s official website, the Bologna ace has a £34 Million release clause in his contract, with the 20-time champions completing their due diligence on the player.
With much excitement surrounding the prospect of the transfer, what could fans expect from the hitman?
Why is the frontman linked with a big-money move
A Bayern Munich academy graduate, Zirkzee has cultivated a reputation as a charismatic forward who is equally comfortable creating and assisting his teammates.
Undoubtedly, 2023-24 has been his most profitable, starring in Thiago Motta’s brilliant I Rossoblù with 12 goals and seven assists across 37 appearances in all competitions.
Despite his age and relative inexperience in leading the line against stellar opposition, he eased towards his task within a division beginning to reclaim its authority in the European conversation.
A modern attacker requires confidence and talent, alongside a certain degree of swagger – the Schiedam man possesses all and is tailor-made to shine on the grandest of stages.
Analysing his work rate and metrics
Zirkzee will not yet jump off the page as a prolific goalscorer – averaging 2.74 shots per 90 minutes throughout the campaign, with 34.5% of those on target.
But this was his breakthrough campaign in leading the line, and he only turned 23 last month. There is ample opportunity for growth, as witnessed throughout an impressive season of personal development.
In possession, the Dutch striker truly shone in chance creation through distribution and ball-carrying.
In averaging 1.4 key passes, 1.3 passes into the area and 2.81 progressive passes per 90′, he also supplied 1.73 progressive carries and 1.5 carries into the final third.
An amalgamation of these creative metrics ranks the attacker in the top 15 percentile throughout European competition.
Zirkzee’s willingness to track back and compete for the football across the field is mesmeric – ranking in the top 15 percentile of attackers across Europe in tackles (1.04), blocks (0.82) and clearances (1.17) per 90′.
How would Zirkzee fit into the United attacking line
The striker’s performances have caught the attention of several leading clubs, with Juventus-bound Motta reportedly keen on reuniting with the Dutchman.
For a number nine, it is unique to rank among the top five players in Serie A for big chances created and attempted dribbles.
A glaring issue for United has been a failure to provide Rasmus Hojlund with scoring opportunities. If Ten Hag opted for a double-headed spear in attack, a partnership could blossom between the promising attackers.
Furthermore, for a modern bargain of £34M, the Old Trafford outfit would have ample strength in depth ahead of a challenging season.
It is unclear whether United will pursue the player at this stage, but his addition would present a positive outcome for the Manchester faithful.
Would a move for Zirkee make sense?
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