Joshua Zirkzee has confirmed that he won’t be immediately linking up with his new teammates after completing his transfer to Manchester United.
The Red Devils confirmed the signing of the Dutch attacker from Bologna on Sunday, their first of the 2024 summer window, in a deal worth just over £36.5 million (€42.5m).
The 23-year-old was also linked with Arsenal and Chelsea following a stellar campaign with the Serie A side, in which he registered 11 goals and four assists to help them qualify for the Uefa Champions League for the first time in 60 years.
Upon the announcement of his five-year contract with Man United, however, Zirkzee said that he will be taking a “short break” after representing the Netherlands at Euro 2024. The former Bayern Munich man made two appearances at the competition before the Oranje were eliminated by England at the semi-final stage.
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“Having had discussions with the manager and the leaders of the club I know how exciting the future is going to be here and I cannot wait to play my part in achieving success for Manchester United,” Zirkzee told the official Man United website.
“I am a player who has always dedicated everything to winning; I’m ready for this next challenge, to go to another level in my career and win more trophies.
“It is a privilege to join such an iconic club. I have to take a short break now after being with the national team, but I’ll be coming back ready to make an impact straight away.”
Before joining Bologna in 2022, Zirkzee won six trophies with Bayern, who will receive over £18m (€21.25m) after including a 50 percent sell-on clause when they sold the youngster.
Zirkzee is the first player to sign for Man United since Sir Jim Ratcliffe bought a minority stake in the club through his company INEOS, giving him control of football operations.
The Dutch international is also the first signing under new sporting director Dan Ashworth, who joined Man United following a protracted dispute with previous employers Newcastle United.
“Securing a forward to enhance our already strong group of attacking players was a key aim for this summer,” Ashworth said. “We are delighted that we’ve managed to sign a player of Joshua’s calibre this early in the transfer window.
“Joshua is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impact for Manchester United. His ability and desire to grow into a world-class player means that he will be a great addition to the squad that we are building for the exciting season ahead and beyond.