Arsenal They are reportedly leading the race to sign Bologna star Joshua Zirkzee this summer after initial talks, according to the Italian outlet. La Gazzetta dello Sportvia Sports Witness.
After coming through the Bayern Munich youth academy, the 22-year-old never managed to break into the Bavarian club's starting eleven. So, he decided to leave the Bundesliga giants and join Rossoblu back in 2022 to play regularly and develop his career.
Having moved to the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, the Dutchman initially took some time to adapt to his new surroundings, but has shown impressive performances this season, helping his team to a top-four finish.
Zirkzee's eye-catching performances in the Italian top-flight have therefore not gone unnoticed, as he has been attracting a lot of attention from several big clubs in Europe ahead of the summer window, with Arsenal among those who have shown interest.
By quoting and translating the printed version of La Gazzetta dello Sport, sports witness have reported that Arsenal are interested in signing the 22-year-old and are currently in pole position to secure his signature following an initial round of talks.
Zirkzee to Arsenal
The report further claims that Bologna could be willing to cash in on their star man, but may demand up to £51m from potential suitors, meaning Arsenal will have to spend a considerable amount of money to sign him.
However, La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that although Arsenal are currently leading the race to sign Zirkzee, Juventus and AC Milan are also interested in signing him and the striker is willing to sign for the Bianconeri. Arsenal will therefore have to convince the player to move to the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Arsenal are reportedly interested in strengthening their front line by signing a prolific goalscorer. Numerous names have been mentioned as serious targets, including Dusan Vlahovic, Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres, but Zirkzee is also reportedly on their radar.
The Bologna star, who stands 6ft 3in tall, is a talented player and has already shown flashes of his qualities in the Italian top flight this season. He could therefore be a shrewd signing for Arsenal if they buy him.
However, Zirkzee is yet to show his qualities at the highest level, so there are doubts as to whether he would be the right option for Arsenal to strengthen their attacking department in the next window.
