Manchester United encounter Joshua Zirkzee problem as two alternatives ‘considered’

Manchester United are reportedly encountering a slight problem with their pursuit of Joshua Zirkzee as the club consider two striker transfers this summer.

Manchester United desperately need to add some fire-power to their front line this summer following Anthony Martial‘s exit from Old Trafford.

Rasmus Højlund is currently the club’s only first-choice striker. The 21-year-old endured a mixed first season at the club amid the injury problems that plagued Erik ten Hag‘s squad last campaign.

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With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new INEOS team coming in to take control of all footballing matters at United, they have made signing another striker to compete with Højlund a priority and have seemingly landed on Joshua Zirkzee.

While The Athletic reports that they have agreed terms with the striker on a five-year contract, there is a slight issue with his fee. Zirkzee’s Bologna contract contains a £34 million release clause, but this sum would have to be paid as a one-off transaction in order to activate it, which is an issue for United.

United are looking to secure deals where they pay off transfer fees over a series of months or seasons. Their budget for this summer is fairly limited due to Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR).

They are currently weighing up whether it is better to pay the £34 million outright or attempt to negotiate and structure a deal differently in order to have the fee paid in instalments – this could slow down progress on the signing.

The club wants another No. 9 to compete with Højlund, and The Athletic’s report also explains that the club has internally discussed alternative options for the position, with Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin surprise options.

“Internally, talks have taken place about Ivan Toney and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who each have one year remaining on their contracts,” the report reads.

“Both have indicated they will not be signing fresh terms at their clubs and are looking to move.”

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