Man United are closing in on key transfer target, deal being held up by payment terms - report
Manchester United are all but set to sign Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, but there’s a minor hiccup holding up the transfer.
According to Fussball.News, the Red Devils are working on a payment structure that allows them to pay his £34 million release clause in instalments.
United are still treading a tightrope with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), so despite being active this summer, they need to ensure they comply with the regulations.
Bayern Munich are due 20% of Zirkzee’s transfer fee, meaning Bologna will have to pay the Bundesliga giants £17m, so they want to receive the player’s buyout clause in full.
Both clubs are still negotiating an agreement, but Zirkzee is expected to be with United next season.
The 23-year-old will provide competition for Rasmus Hojlund, who scored ten goals in 30 Premier League games last season.
It is unclear if manager Erik ten Hag will devise a system that allows both strikers to lead the line together, but Zirkzee is also versatile enough to play on the left flank.
The Netherlands international had an impressive campaign with Bologna last season, bagging 11 goals and five assists in 34 Serie A appearances.
United beat competition from AC Milan to sign the talented striker, but they still need to agree to a suitable payment structure with Bologna before the transfer can be finalised.
They are eager to bolster their attacking ranks following Anthony Martial’s departure and the woeful performances from Antony and Marcus Rashford.
Zirkzee was a primary target for Ten Hag, and United could finalise a deal for the Dutchman after the European Championship in Germany.
The player has already agreed a five-year contract with the Premier League giants.
Zirkzee is away with the Netherlands national team and made his international debut on Saturday in the 2-1 win over Turkey in the quarter-final.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.