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Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee (Source: X)
As the first summer signing of the new INEOS era, Joshua Zirkzee's arrival at Manchester United was formally revealed this afternoon. The attacker, who was sought to alleviate Rasmus Hojlund of his goal-scoring burden after Anthony Martial's departure, arrives from Bologna on a five-year contract with the option of an additional season.
Joshua Zirkzee, who came up via Bayern Munich's academy, was Bologna's top scorer in the Serie A last season, helping them reach the Champions League. United announced on Sunday that the 23-year-old has signed until June 2029. United are paying 42.5 million euros for Zirkzee's services, which will be paid over three seasons.
Zirkzee expressed his joy at joining the Red Devils and stated he can't wait to contribute to the club's success. Zirkzee described himself as someone who is driven to win and is ready for this new challenge in his life. He made 37 appearances last season and scored 12 goals, helping Bologna, a Serie A team, surprise everyone by earning a berth in the Champions League this year.
So, what was said between Joshua and Kobbie after the #EURO2024 semi-final? 👀😉#MUFC pic.twitter.com/NeRGaSRLat
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 14, 2024
Zirkzee was a member of the Netherlands squad that advanced to the semi-finals of Euro 2024. Zirkzee faced two of his new teammates, Kobbie Mainoo and Luke Shaw, in his home Netherlands' Euro 2024 semi-final against England on Wednesday evening.
Joshua Zirkzee is described as an outstanding talent
Of course, the Three Lions were ultimately victorious courtesy of Ollie Watkins' spectacular 90-minute winner, but United's latest signing took the time to introduce himself to Mainoo after the game. A photo of the pair's conversation soon spread on social media, even though Zirkzee's moving has been announced and completed.
“He [Mainoo] asked me if I was coming… I said see you soon, after the final!” Zirkzee told club media in a newly-released clip.
When Anthony Martial left United in June when his contract expired, United manager Erik ten Hag found himself shorthanded in terms of attacking alternatives. Zirkzee was described as an outstanding talent who was ready to make an impact for Manchester United.