Joshua Zirkzee sends Rasmus Højlund the perfect message with Man United transfer update

Joshua Zirkzee has sent the perfect message to Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund with new transfer updates on his situation.

Zirkzee, 23, has been heavily linked with a move to United in recent weeks, and it has now been claimed that the Reds are preparing to trigger the £34 million release clause in his Bologna contract.

After Hojlund scored 16 goals during his debut campaign at Old Trafford last term, United are looking to sign another striker to aid the Dane, who is currently the only recognised no.9 at the club.

Anthony Martial departs at the end of his contract this month, and INEOS have identified a striker as a priority signing this summer.

Zirkzee could be that player, depending on how negotiations with his agent go, but there are also question marks about bringing in another young forward.

Højlund is heavily rated, and some would suggest that he needs to start regularly to reach his potential in the coming years.

Interestingly, while United will certainly want to protect the 21-year-old from being overplayed, Zirkzee could also provide the option to play a two-man forward line.

Højlund has not had a strike partner at United so far, with Erik ten Hag’s side lining up in a 4-2-3-1 for the most part. Zirkzee, however, has already admitted that he prefers playing alongside a more natural striker, such as the Dane.

Speaking to Corriere della Sera recently, the Dutch forward explained how he has developed into a ‘9.5’ at Bologna.

“I’m not a pure centre forward. I said a year ago that I liked playing with an attacking partner,” he explained. “But Motta transformed me into a 9 and a half. I’m not an Arnautovic type, I like to come forward after playing the ball and help the team. And score goals.”

Zirkzee has become accustomed to playing as a lone striker in Italy, and he could benefit the inside forwards such as Marcus Rashford with his playstyle at Old Trafford.

However, Højlund will be delighted that the 23-year-old is keen to play alongside another striker, and it could be something that Ten Hag considers if a deal materialises.

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