LONDON, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Manchester United on Sunday announced the signing of Dutch international striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in a deal worth 36.54 million pounds (45 million U.S. Dollars), with the 23-year-old signing a five-year contract with the English club.
Zirkzee will help cover for the departure of Anthony Martial who left Old Trafford at the end of June when his contract expired.
United have reportedly paid a fee slightly higher than Zirkzee's release clause, allowing them to spread the payments over three years to help them meet financial fair-play rules.
The forward netted 12 goals in 37 appearances for the Italian side last season, but only made two appearances as a substitute for the Dutch national side in their 2-1 loss to England in the semifinal of the Euro 2024.
He told the Manchester United website that it was a privilege to join such an iconic club," adding he was "ready to go to another level in my career and win more trophies."
Meanwhile, United's sporting director Dan Ashworth, said Zirkzee was an "an outstanding talent" whose "ability and desire to grow into a world-class player means that he will be a great addition to the squad that we are building for the exciting season ahead and beyond." ■
