Arsenal have already set aside €50 million to sign Manchester United target Joshua Zirkzee for the coming season, according to Gazzetta dello Sport (page 16).
The Dutchman has had an impressive second year with Bologna. He has netted eight goals and registered another four assists from 22 appearances in all competitions.
His statistics are not overwhelming but it is reported that both Arsenal and United are interested in bringing him to the Premier League in the next transfer window.
Gazzetta dello Sport highlight that the Gunners have ‘already set aside’ €50m to sign the 22-year-old striker, but Bologna are yet to determine a price for his services.
Rasmus Hojlund joined the Red Devils in a deal worth €80m from Atalanta last summer. It is suggested that Bologna technical director Giovanni Sartori could look for a similar fee.
Bayern currently have an option to re-sign Zirkzee for €40m, but they also have a 40 per cent sell-on clause on any capital gain. Hence, Bologna are unlikely to let him go on the cheap.
Arsenal must not overspend on Zirkzee
The Gunners are likely to pursue a new striker this year. A deal seems unlikely this winter due to Financial Fair Play restrictions, but they could make a huge outlay in the summer.
Zirkzee has had a transformative second season at Bologna with 12 goal contributions, but he is far from the finished article and has plenty of room for improvement going forward.
The Dutchman’s pace, dribbling skills and anchor play would suit the Gunners, but they must avoid overspending on his services amid competition from the Red Devils.
United have been guilty of paying over the odds for some of their signings. Arsenal need to avoid a similar mistake and should not offer more than their estimated price.
They seem prepared to pay €50m for the ex-Bayern striker. The hierarchy should walk away from negotiations if Bologna are eyeing a higher fee citing Hojlund’s move to United.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
