Bologna is facing a crucial summer transfer window as the club prepares for the potential departure of two of its standout players. The club’s director Sartori has confirmed that Joshua Zirkzee is almost certain to leave, stating, “Joshua Zirkzee has release clause into his contract and I believe he’s 99% gonna leave the club”. The clause is valid from 1st July until mid August, worth €40 million. Manchester United is actively engaged in talks with Zirkzee’s camp, and the latest reports coming are that they have reached an agreement with the player’s agent and have convinced Zirkzee about the role he will have under Erik ten Hag. AC Milan is another interested party, but the Rossoneri are yet to give the green light on commissions.
🚨 | #mufc have reached an agreement with Joshua Zirkzee's agent and have convinced the player about the role he will play under Erik ten Hag.
[@corrierebologna] pic.twitter.com/CN7cUsaYkh
— UtdDistrict (@UtdDistrict) July 2, 2024
In addition to Zirkzee, Bologna may also lose Riccardo Calafiori. Sartori mentioned, “I can confirm that we will consider proposals for Riccardo Calafiori. It’d be fantastic to keep him, but we have to be realistic. In case of a good proposal, we will discuss that, and we anticipate clubs from abroad to move.” Riccardo Calafiori has been discussed internally at Chelsea and Arsenal, with Juventus already on it since February, claims Fabrizio Romano.
The news comes on the heels of the club’s managerial change, with Thiago Motta, who led Bologna to a fourth-place finish in Serie A last season, moving to Juventus. As Bologna prepares to participate in the Champions League next season, it will be interesting to see how the club manages to replace these outgoing stars with players of the same caliber. It looks like a tough task, but Bologna’s performance in the transfer market will define their success in the upcoming season.