Milan are set to prioritise the signing of a new centre-forward in the summer transfer window, and Bologna’s Manchester United-linked striker Joshua Zirkzee could be the Rossoneri’s top target, says transfer expert Matteo Moretto.
The Rossoneri are understood to be on the lookout for an eventual heir to Olivier Giroud’s throne, as the 37-year-old is entering the final few months of his current contract and it is reported that he could be open to a new challenge elsewhere. A move to MLS is thought to be an enticing option.
Milan have several strikers to evaluate ahead of the summer transfer window, including Lille and Canada forward Jonathan David, but Milan believe they could use one of their loanees to strike a deal with Bologna for Zirkzee.
Transfer pundit Matteo Moretto told Caught Offside that “sooner or later,” Bologna will speak to Milan about Alexis Saelemaekers, who is currently on loan at the Dall’Ara until the end of the season with an option to buy.
The LaLiga and Serie A insider reports that Bologna are keen to make Saelemaekers’s stay in Bologna permanent.
It is believed that Milan will attempt to use Bologna’s interest in Saelemaekers as a potential bargaining chip in discussions for Zirkzee. Milan will see if they can negotiate a deal involving Saelemaekers plus cash.
The Rossoneri are not the only interested party in Zirkzee, as several clubs in the Premier League, including Manchester United are also keen on the promising 22-year-old.