Transfer Talk: Bayern, AC Milan, Arsenal keen on Zirkzee

Posted Saturday, March 09, 2024 by ESPN

Bayern Munich may look to bring back Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee during the summer amid interest from AC Milan and Arsenal, as has been reported by Calciomercato.

AC Milan have identified the 22-year-old as their priority for the upcoming transfer window in coming months but could now could hit a roadblock from Zirkzee's former club. Zirkzee started his professional career in Munich before joining Bologna in 2022.

Clubs from the Premier League are among those who have shown interest in Zirkzee and Arsenal are seen as a serious option. Bayern are aware that a whole host of clubs from across Europe are interested in the Dutchman and they are eager to take control of the situation.

Milan, meanwhile, are lining up back-up options if they can't sign Zirkzee, who has recorded 11 goals and six assists in 29 matches across all competitions this season. The Italian club are now looking at Sporting CP's Viktor Gyökeres and RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko as potential alternatives.

Gyokeres, 25, has caught the eye of various clubs with his impressive tally of 32 goals and 11 assists in 36 appearances across all competitions since joining Sporting from Coventry City in the summer. He now has a release clause of €100m, which is difficult for Milan to reach but not deemed to be impossible.

Sesko, 20, is also liked by the management at Milan and, while there haven't been any contacts with Leipzig yet, he is seen as the most likely alternative if they are unable to sign Zirkzee, who remains the first choice.

Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee could end up back at Bayern Munich, or moving to the likes of Arsenal or AC Milan.