Manchester United considered the £25.3m Premier League striker and star as alternatives to Joshua Zirkzee until the moment he signed
Manchester United were looking for alternative signings to Joshua Zirkzee until the last minute, according to a report.
circus He became the first signing of the INEOS era at Old Trafford when he joined from Serie A side Bologna. in a £36m deal.
The 23-year-old forward enjoyed a productive 2023/24 season with Bologna, as his 11 goals and four assists in 34 appearances helped the club qualify for this season's Champions League.
Zirkzee filled the void left by Antonio Martialwho left the Red Devils as a free agent after nine years of service.
According to ESPN, Zirkzee was United's primary choice to replace Martial but they had two contingency plans in place should a deal not materialise.
The report details how United's new sporting director's transfer committee Dan AshworthTechnical director Jason Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada would be juggling multiple deals rather than completing one after another.
Along with the pursuit of Zirkzee, United have reportedly landed the former Brentford star Ivan Toney and Lille's Jonathan David on their transfer wish list.
However, the trio decided not to attempt a deal with Toney because they decided it was too costly.
The 28-year-old would later move From the Bees to Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli for £40m, with a contract worth a whopping £50m.
Although Zirzkee remained the priority, the report claims a deal for David, which would have cost United around £25.3m, was still active up until the time the Red Devils shook hands with Bologna.
David ultimately did not leave Lille in the summer despite constant rumours about his departure.
As for Zirkzee, he started his United career well by scoring the winning goal in the club's opening game of the season against Fulham.
He made a deft touch to deflect Alejandro Garnacho's cross in what turned out to be the only goal of the match.
However, Zirkzee struggled in his first start for the Red Devils, who lost 3-0 to Liverpool.
He was also unlucky to prevent a goal for United against Brighton when he touched Garnacho's shot that was heading for goal from wide.
It turned out to be a damaging blow. When the Seagulls scored a last-minute goal to beat United 2-1.
Zirkzee did find the back of the net while with his country, as he scored the opening goal for the Netherlands in their 5-2 win over Bosnia in the Nations League.
The 23-year-old will be looking to continue his goalscoring streak when he returns to Premier League action for United on Saturday when they travel to Southampton.
JOIN THE DUGOUT
Have your say on all things talkSPORT by joining 'THE DUGOUT' – our new panel of listeners.
Our aim is to take a deeper look at your perspectives and make sure talkSPORT is the best it can be. Your voice matters and we want to hear it!
Present your innovative ideas and participate in fun locker room polls, surveys and debates.
Just by joining, you'll be entered into a draw to win one of four £50 Amazon vouchers, and you'll be entered into another draw for every survey you complete afterwards.
To join 'The DUGOUT' panel, please Click here.
