Manchester United’s top striker target to cost considerably more than first believed

According to a new report, Manchester United target Joshua Zirkzee’s market value is much higher than initially believed.

Zirkzee, 22, has scored seven league goals for Serie A side Bologna this season, as well as picking up two assists.

Signing for Bologna from Bayern Munich in August of 2022, Zirkzee has risen to become a regular starter for the Italian side this season.

Read More: West Ham director explains Manchester United’s dressing room “poison” under Glazer ownership

In that time, Zirkzee has emerged as a possible transfer target for Manchester United, with the Red Devils keen to reinforce their frontline.

Recent reports had indicated that Zirkzee would be available for a fee of £35 million, as it would be enough to trigger his release clause.

However, according to the respected Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, this information is outdated. Additionally, the journalist revealed that United will face stiff competition if they do attempt to sign the striker.

“Is his market value 35 million euros? No, I think more,” Di Marzio told SoccerNews.Nl. “He has a release clause in his contract worth 50 million, and Bayern Munich has the option to bring him back for 50 per cent of that amount.”

“He is a key target for AC Milan, and I think he will soon move to an Italian top club or maybe the Premier League.”

“He is so strong and has so many qualities. In Serie A, he is the striker who leaves the best impression in Italy after Lautaro Martínez. Thiago Motta is in a list to become the coach of Milan, and Motta and Zirkzee have been in contact; maybe he will take him with him if he’ll join Milan.”

In the meantime, United will have to continue to rely on the abilities of striker Rasmus Højlund, with fellow striker Anthony Martial having been exiled by Erik ten Hag following concerns over the Frenchman’s fitness.