Milan had him in their grasp. Or almost. Joshua Zirkzee chose Manchester United, convinced by the persistent calls from the Dutch coach Erik Ten Hag, who personally insisted on having the Bologna forward on the team. The Rossoneri had had him in their sights for months, and as soon as they learned that Giroud wanted to leave at the end of the season, they inquired about the release clause of the Bologna forward: the value was 40 million euros, expiring in mid-August.
As confirmed by Calciomercato.com, what derailed the transfer to Milan was the commission request made by the player's agent, Kia Joorabchian: a sum considered too high by the Rossoneri club. Thus, negotiations began to discuss the fee to be paid to the agent, but the parties always remained far apart. Meanwhile, Manchester United stepped in and closed the deal. The Red Devils invested 42.5 million for Zirkzee, a slightly higher amount than the clause to have the option of spreading the payment over several installments.
Zirkzee's priority was to stay in Italy to continue playing in Serie A, but the lack of agreement between Milan and Joorabchian opened the door for Manchester United.
The English club were looking for a striker with the Dutchman's characteristics, a number nine who was also technical and physical, and as soon as they had the chance, they struck.
