According to Sky Sport Italia via Football Italia, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has personally reached out to Dutch-Nigerian striker Joshua Zirkzee to pitch the idea of joining the Red Devils during the summer transfer window.

Manchester United has identified the Bologna forward as one of their primary targets, with ten Hag eager to secure his signature. Despite acquiring Rasmus Højlund from Atalanta last summer, the club is seeking another central forward following last season’s struggles in the final third and Anthony Martial’s departure.

Zirkzee, who was awarded Serie A’s Best Young Player last term, has caught the attention of Manchester United. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the club is aware of the 23-year-old’s €40m release clause, which expires in August.

Internal discussions at Manchester United are ongoing regarding the deal’s cost, including the reported €15m commission demanded by Zirkzee’s agent. AC Milan remains in the race for the Bayern Munich Academy product and has agreed on contractual terms with the forward but is hesitant to pay the agent’s commission, potentially giving Manchester United an advantage.

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