Manchester United have intensified their pursuit of Dutch sensation Joshua Zirkzee as the clock ticks down on Bayern Munich's crucial buy-back clause, according to exclusive reports from Italy.
The Red Devils are preparing to make their move for the 23-year-old striker, who has emerged as Erik ten Hag's primary attacking target this summer. Zirkzee's impressive 12-goal campaign with Bologna has put Europe's elite clubs on high alert.
Bayern's Diminishing Control
German giants Bayern Munich retain a €40 million (£33.7 million) buy-back option on their former academy star, but this clause carries a significant expiration date. The Bavarians have until June 14th to activate their priority right, after which Bologna would be free to negotiate with any club without restrictions.
This narrowing window has prompted United to accelerate their interest, with club officials reportedly in direct contact with Zirkzee's representatives to discuss personal terms ahead of a potential summer switch.
Ten Hag's Dutch Connection
The potential transfer represents another chapter in Ten Hag's strategy of recruiting talent from the Eredivisie and surrounding leagues. Having worked with Zirkzee during their overlapping time in Dutch football, the United manager is said to be a huge admirer of the young forward's technical ability and physical presence.
Zirkzee's versatility to operate as both a central striker and support forward makes him an attractive proposition for a United side looking to add depth and quality to their attacking options.
Competition and Complications
While United appear to be leading the chase, they face competition from several Serie A clubs, including former employers AC Milan. However, the Premier League's financial power and United's global stature could prove decisive in the race for his signature.
The transfer fee is expected to comfortably exceed Bayern's €40 million option, with Bologna likely to demand closer to €60 million (£50.5 million) once the German club's preferential treatment expires.
United fans will be watching developments closely as the mid-June deadline approaches, hoping their club can secure what would be a statement signing early in the transfer window.
