David Ornstein: Man Utd deal for new striker now close after agreeing terms with him & his agent

Manchester United are now close to securing a deal for Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee after agreeing terms with him, according to The Athletic journalist David Ornstein.

Apart from agreeing personal terms with the Netherlands international, the Red Devils have also struck an agreement with his agent concerning his commission despite its sizable value.

Man United believe it is fair in the context of an overall package deemed good value for money.

The Old Trafford club remain in talks with Bologna as they are now deciding whether to activate the €40 million buyout clause in the contract of Zirkzee or negotiate a price separately, as paying his buyout clause in full is a potential cashflow issue for them.

Man United want to bolster their attacking ranks ahead of next season following Anthony Martial’s departure and the woeful performances from Antony and Marcus Rashford, and Zirkzee has been identified as a solid option who is also capable of providing cover and competition for Rasmus Hojlund.

They see him as having a complementary skillset to the Denmark international and being capable of strengthening their range of possibilities in the final third, and the Dutchman is keen on the move.

The former Bayern Munich striker notched 11 Serie A goals and five assists last term, helping Bologna to secure Champions League football, and he will be hoping to help Man United return to former glories.

Zirkzee is currently at the European Championship, making his debut in the 2-1 win over Turkey in the quarter-final on Saturday, and a deal for him to move to the Old Trafford club could be wrapped up after the tournament ends next Sunday.

Man United need such a forward if they want to challenge for major silverware next term, and he fits the mould and profile of the player co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants in new recruitment going forward.