Newcastle’s €50 million offer for the Bologna star, Joshua Zirkzee

Newcastle United is eyeing Joshua Zirkzee, willing to pay €50 million after his impressive season at Bologna.

December 24, 2023

Newcastle To Sign Bologna Star Joshua — Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images

As per Milan Web, Newcastle United is eyeing a €50 million deal to secure the services of Joshua Zirkzee, who impressed by his standout season with Bologna. The Italian club acknowledges the rising interest in the Dutch striker and could entertain offers in the upcoming summer.

Zirkzee initially caught attention during his stint at Bayern Munich but experienced a decline thereafter. Despite successful loan spells at Parma and Anderlecht, Bayern eventually opted to sell him for a reasonable fee of €8.5 million.

Bologna took a chance on the 22-year-old forward in the summer of 2022, and this season, Zirkzee has truly shone. His tally of seven goals and two assists in 16 Serie A matches has attracted the gaze of major clubs.

Continued impressive performances could lead to promising opportunities. Milan is among the interested parties, seeking to rejuvenate their striking options. While linked with Serhou Guirassy, the Stuttgart forward might opt for a Premier League side offering a lucrative deal.

Milan is exploring various avenues and has now identified Zirkzee, yet faces stiff competition, notably from Newcastle United. Reports suggest that the Magpies could outbid others with a substantial €50 million offer for the Serie A striker.

Newcastle is eager to add a young striker, having also been linked to Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel. Their willingness to pay €50 million for Zirkzee could potentially deter other suitors. Interestingly, Bayern is interested in re-signing the 22-year-old and holds advantageous clauses in his contract that could aid their pursuit.

Bayern possesses a €20 million buy-back clause, and if Bologna sells Zirkzee to another club, Bayern stands to gain 50% of the sale due to a sell-on clause. Thus, they stand to profit from Zirkzee’s transfer. Therefore, a €50 million bid from Newcastle could entice Bologna into considering a sale.

A transfer in January seems unlikely, with plans for the forward to move in the summer. However, more clubs might enter the fray by then, although Newcastle’s financial strength could play a significant role.