MANCHESTER United have confirmed the signing of Joshua Orobosa Zirkzee, the Dutch striker with Nigerian heritage.
Zirksee, 23, who was born in the Netherlands to a Nigerian mother and Dutch father, joined Manchester United today from Italian club Bologna.
Manchester United did not trigger Zirkzee’s €40m release clause, instead agreeing to pay €42.5m with installmental plans over three years.
“Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Joshua Zirkzee has joined the club, subject to registration,” the English Premier League club announced today.
“The Dutch forward has signed a contract until June 2029, with the option to extend for a further year.
“Zirkzee, the 2023/24 Serie A Under-23 Player of the Year, was Bologna FC’s top goalscorer last season, helping his team qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
“The 23-year-old Netherlands international earlier won six trophies during his time with Bayern Munich.”
Zirkzee, who was in the Netherlands squad that reached the semi-finals of the ongoing Euro 2024 European Championship, said he was delighted to become a Manchester United player.
“Having had discussions with the manager and the leaders of the club I know how exciting the future is going to be here and I cannot wait to play my part in achieving success for Manchester United ” he told the club’s official website.
“I am a player who has always dedicated everything to winning; I’m ready for this next challenge, to go to another level in my career and win more trophies.
“It is a privilege to join such an iconic club. I have to take a short break now after being with the national team, but I’ll be coming back ready to make an impact straight away.”
Dan Ashworth, Manchester United sporting director, said: “Securing a forward to enhance our already strong group of attacking players was a key aim for this summer. We are delighted that we’ve managed to sign a player of Joshua’s calibre this early in the transfer window.
“Joshua is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impact for Manchester United. His ability and desire to grow into a world-class player means that he will be a great addition to the squad that we are building for the exciting season ahead and beyond.
“Having already achieved a significant amount in his career, we will provide Joshua with the perfect platform to reach the next level under the guidance and support of Erik ten Hag and the coaching staff. We look forward to seeing Joshua thrive at Old Trafford over the coming years.”
Zirkzee began his career in the Netherlands before joining the junior ranks of German giants Bayern Munich in 2017.
He made the move to Bologna in June 2023 for €27.5m and he had a decent time in the Italian club as he made 57 appearances, registering 13 goals and seven assists.
Zirkzee is the first senior men’s signing of the INEOS era at Manchester United.
