According to the Italian publication Calciomercato, Manchester United is supposedly in the lead to recruit Joshua Zirkzee, a standout player for Bologna, next summer.

The Red Devils attempted to solve their goal-scoring problems from the previous season by bringing in Rasmus Hojlund in the summer. The Dane was having trouble finding the back of the net in the Premier League, despite his five goals in the Champions League this season.

However, after tallying four goals in his previous four league appearances, it appears the 22-year-old has begun to turn the corner. Even though Hojlund has been playing well lately, it appears like United is trying to find a new striker to replace Anthony Martial, who is nearing the end of his current deal.

As per the Calciomercato report, Man Utd has recognised Zirkzee as a potential addition to their front line and has initiated formal negotiations to buy him before the summer ends.

According to the article, Man Utd are presently “above all” in the race to sign the forward, but AC Milan, Napoli, and Juventus are reportedly all interested in signing the Bologna star.

Zirkzee to Manchester United

Zirkzee’s current contract includes a £34 million release clause, according to Calciomercato, meaning Man Utd will need to pay a hefty sum of money to get the Dutchman’s services.

With eight goals and three assists in 21 Serie A outings so far this season, the 22-year-old has had an incredible season. The Old Trafford supporters will be hoping that, should he join the Red Devils in the summer, Zirkzee, who has already shown flashes of his potential in the Italian top division, can duplicate that kind of play in the Premier League.

If Man Utd buy Zirkzee, it may be a wise move since they need a fresh striker to complement Hojlund. In addition to being technically sound, he can play between the lines, finish opportunities efficiently, and open doors for other attackers.

It will be intriguing to watch, though, if Man Utd decides to recruit the Dutchman in the end to bolster their striking unit come summertime.