Milan’s Battle for Zirkzee: Crucial Fortnight Ahead Amid Manchester United Competition
Restless negotiations between Milan and Joshua Zirkzee have dominated the early summer headlines. According to Calciomercato, the next 15 days will be crucial for the Dutchman’s highly anticipated transfer to Stadio San Siro.
Zirkzee has become the top candidate to replace Olivier Giroud at the heart of Milan’s attack. The 23-year-old forward is currently on international duty with the Netherlands, facing Romania in the Euro 2024 round of 16, and he wants no distractions.
He has instructed his agent, Kia Joorabchian, to put all transfer discussions on hold. Zirkzee aims to help the Netherlands achieve a notable result in Germany. Afterward, he will discuss his future with Bologna and his agent. Milan must be patient, but they are unwilling to waste the summer on an uncertain pursuit.
Milan is ready to pay Bologna €40 million for the former Bayern Munich starlet. However, Joorabchian’s demand for a €15m commission has stalled the deal. Milan is prepared to walk away from Zirkzee unless his representatives lower their demands.
Complicating matters further, Milan may have to compete with Manchester United for Zirkzee’s signature. Erik ten Hag views his compatriot as a solution to the Red Devils’ attacking issues. Unlike Milan, Manchester United would have no trouble meeting Joorabchian’s financial demands. Therefore, the Italians must act quickly if they hope to bring Zirkzee to San Siro.
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