Manchester United have made a key early summer transfer addition to their squad with the signing of forward Joshua Zirkzee.
On Sunday afternoon, United announced the signing of Netherlands international Zirkzee, with the 23-year-old signing a five-year contract with the option of a further year. United have yet to confirm which squad number Zirkzee will wear on his new shirt, but the current available squad numbers below 40 are: 3; 4; 9; 13; 19; 26; 27; 30; 31; 33; 34; 36; 38; 40.
Having worn the number 9 shirt at his previous club Bologna, Zirkzee is said to be keen on keeping it with Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg recently reporting that the forward ‘hopes to get the jersey’. If Zirkzee’s wish is granted, he would follow in the footsteps of previous United number 9 Anthony Martial.
Other notable names to have donned the shirt include strikers Andy Cole, Brian McClair, George Best and Sir Bobby Charlton, while midfielders Roy Keane and Paul Scholes also wore the number for a period. Another squad number of note is 35, which Zirkzee wore for a spell at Bayern Munich before his switch to Bologna.
While part of Ronald Koeman’s UEFA Euro 2024 squad, the forward wore the ‘21’ shirt – currently occupied by Antony at Old Trafford.
Following confirmation of his transfer to United, Zirkzee said: “Having had discussions with the manager and the leaders of the club I know how exciting the future is going to be here and I cannot wait to play my part in achieving success for Manchester United.
“I am a player who has always dedicated everything to winning; I’m ready for this next challenge, to go to another level in my career and win more trophies.
“It is a privilege to join such an iconic club. I have to take a short break now after being with the national team, but I’ll be coming back ready to make an impact straight away.”
Dan Ashworth, United’s new sporting director, said: “Securing a forward to enhance our already strong group of attacking players was a key aim for this summer. We are delighted that we’ve managed to sign a player of Joshua’s calibre this early in the transfer window.
“Joshua is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impact for Manchester United. His 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.”
Erik ten Hag’s side will get their pre-season preparation underway with a trip to Norway on Saturday evening. United will face Rosenborg FK before later fixtures against Liverpool, Real Betis, Arsenal and Rangers.
United’s Premier League season starts on Friday 16 August against Fulham at Old Trafford.