Manchester United are one of the teams closely watching Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee.
The biggest threat to Manchester United in the race for Joshua Zirkzee is widely reported to be Serie A side AC Milan.
Gianluca di Marzio has reported interest from Milan, who were considered to be leading the race before Manchester United stepped up interest in the Dutchman.
Now according to Goal, the Milan are considering alternatives as they prepare for the eventuality Zirkzee is Old Trafford bound.
Sky Italia report there is contact from the Manchester United manager: “In the last few days contacts between Manchester United and Zirkzee have continued. Ten Hag spoke to him, putting him on top of his market targets.”
Milan urged to push for Zirkzee
Two players AC Milan are looking at are Serie A forwards Romelu Lukaku and Tammy Abraham. But Zirkzee is seen as the top choice, and one with a higher ceiling.
Former Serie A ace Massimo Orlando, who made more than 100 appearances for Fiorentina, has told TMW that Zirkzee is the best option.
He said: “I would only take Zirkzee, he is someone who makes my team play spectacularly.
“Yes, you are certain of Lukaku but you have to think about the future.
“With Zirkzee you know you have someone on your hands who can become a phenomenon.”
Zirkzee makes the team better
Orlando’s comments highlight the impact Zirkzee could have at Manchester United. He can help to lift the team around him.
Think how Wout Weghorst played a part in United’s successful run at the start of 2023, often dropping deep, and now add in some goals.
Zirkzee’s ability in and around the box can help to drag defenders out of position, help United keep possession in the final third, and unlock space for others.
Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford are two players in particular who can benefit from playing in the same line-up as Zirkzee.
Last season he struck 12 goals, while Bologna stunned their rivals and finished in fourth place in Serie A.
Milan are not giving up on signing him just yet, and with his release clause now active from July 1, expect activity to step up from both sides.