Manchester United first signing become imminent as Joshua Zirkzee delivers his verdict on his transfer interest to move to Old Trafford this summer

Joshua Zirkzee, the forward for Bologna, has acknowledged that he is uncertain about his future in light of Manchester United’s interest in signing him.

The admission was made by Zirkzee after he stepped off the bench in the latter phases of the Netherlands’ European Championship quarter-final victory over Turkey in Berlin on Saturday evening. He replaced Xavi Simons to assist Ronald Koeman’s team in securing a 2-1 victory and securing a semi-final meeting with England on Wednesday night.

Zirkzee’s senior Netherlands debut was distinguished by his three-minute cameo, which was a late addition to the squad prior to the tournament. He had been an unused substitute in each of their first four matches in Germany.

Nevertheless, the 23-year-old has been a topic of considerable discussion in recent weeks. United is eager to acquire a striker during the upcoming summer transfer window, and he is a top priority.

United are presently in the process of “finalizing a deal” for him, according to a report by The Athletic. It is alleged that negotiations regarding the price United will pay are currently underway. The club is ‘evaluating’ whether to activate his €40 million (£33.8m at the current exchange rate) release clause or negotiate a different fee. The report concludes that an agreement is “on the brink of being finalized.”

However, Zirkzee has maintained a low profile regarding his future, acknowledging that he is uncertain as to whether or not he will continue to compete in Italy this season. He has also been associated with AC Milan on a significant scale.

He disclosed to reporters, “I am uncertain; we shall determine.”

When asked if there is a 50% likelihood that he will remain at the club, he reiterated, “Let’s see.”

Following the recent confirmation by Bologna sporting director Giovanni Sartori that it is highly probable that he will depart the club during this summer’s transfer window, Zirkzee has made public statements.

Sartori informed Sky Sport Italia in midweek that Zirkzee will depart 99.9% of the time due to a clause in his contract. “We have been contemplating his replacement for several months.” It will be challenging, but we will endeavor to supplant him. We have already generated several names and concepts.

Zirkzee contributed 12 goals across all competitions during his 37 appearances for Bologna last season. In 2022, he transferred from Bayern Munich to the club.