BOLOGNA, ITALY - APRIL 28: Arsenal target Joshua Zirkzee of Bologna FC during the Serie A TIM match between Bologna FC and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on April 28, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
BOLOGNA, ITALY - APRIL 28: Arsenal target Joshua Zirkzee of Bologna FC during the Serie A TIM match between Bologna FC and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on April 28, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Milan have reportedly informed Bologna of their intention to activate the release clause present in Joshua Zirkzee’s contract.

The Rossoneri cast a wide net in their search for a new centre forward this summer, needing to find a replacement for Olivier Giroud, who is leaving on a free transfer to join up with MLS side Los Angeles FC, leaving a gaping hole in the frontline.

Milan still haven’t officially appointed their new head coach following Stefano Pioli’s exit last month, but Paulo Fonseca is widely expected to take on the role, even if some rumours have claimed that Massimiliano Allegri is now in the running following his Juventus exit.

Milan want Zirkzee

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Milan have been in contact with Bologna to confirm their plans to activate Zirkzee’s €40m release clause, working to snap up the talented Dutch striker ahead of their competition. The clause is active from July 1st.

Negotiations are now ongoing between the Rossoneri and the 23-year-old’s entourage as they look to agree personal terms. His agent Kia Joorabchian allegedly wants around €10-12m in commissions.