Bologna’s talents, Joshua Zirkzee and Riccardo Calafiori, are on the brink of significant moves to the Premier League, with Manchester United and Arsenal, respectively, closing in on the players.
Manchester United have made progress in their pursuit of Joshua Zirkzee. The Red Devils have reached an agreement with Zirkzee over personal terms, and all details have been finalized with the player’s agent, claims Fabrizio Romano. Now, Manchester United are in discussions with Bologna regarding the deal’s structure. They have the option to trigger Zirkzee’s €40 million release clause in a single payment or negotiate new terms, considering Bologna owes 50% of any deal to Bayern Munich. The Dutch striker, who has been a key player for Bologna, is keen on the move, and Manchester United are equally enthusiastic about bringing him to Old Trafford.
🔴🇳🇱 More on Zirkzee. Man United and Bologna will decide shortly which way they prefer to complete the deal.
United agreed terms with Zirkzee, now #MUFC can trigger €40m clause to be paid in one solution…
…or negotiate new terms, as Bologna owe 50% of the deal to Bayern. pic.twitter.com/ogQiMzq1g1
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 8, 2024
Meanwhile, Arsenal are making strides in securing the services of Riccardo Calafiori. The Gunners have scheduled a final round of talks with Bologna next week, aiming to finalize the deal. Calafiori is eager to join Arsenal and has already agreed to a contract running until June 2029, which will see him earn €4 million net per season. The Gunners’ confidence in completing the transfer is high, as Calafiori has expressed his enthusiasm for the project at the Emirates Stadium.
Both transfers highlight the Premier League’s allure and the growing trend of Italian Serie A stars making their way to England’s top flight. Bologna, having enjoyed a successful season, ensuring Champions League qualification after finishing 4th in Serie A, now faces the challenge of replacing two of their key players.
As negotiations near their conclusion, Bologna’s ability to replace these outgoing stars will be crucial for their continued success in Serie A. At the same time, Manchester United and Arsenal fans eagerly await the arrival of their new signings, hoping they can make an immediate impact in the Premier League.