In a recent report, Milan Web claimed that Newcastle United are set to rival AC MIlan for Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee. It has been mentioned that the Magpies are showing interest in recruiting the Dutch striker in 2024.
Zirkzee’s Decent Run Of Form In Italian Football
Zirkzee has enjoyed an impressive season at the Italian club as he has put in a series of fruitful displays for them in the final third. The 22-year-old has featured in 18 matches for Bologna during this campaign, finding the back of the net on eight occasions and earning four assists in the process across all competitions.
The Dutch talent has given a good account of himself in the opponent’s half and has done well to average 2.2 shots, 1.4 key passes and 1.4 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution after making 75.1% of his attempted passes in the Italian top flight (stats via whoscored).
Zirkzee is under contract at the Italian club will expire in the summer of 2026 which would make it difficult for the Magpies to sign him on a cut-price deal next year.
Is Zirkzee A Good Option For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?
Zirkzee excels at finding a yard of space for himself to get some strikes on target. He has proven himself to be a capable finisher in front of the opponent’s half and has got the vision to engineer a few inviting chances for his teammates in the final third. The Dutch sensation can make a few decent runs with the ball in and around the opposition penalty box.
We can expect Zirkzee to bring more firepower to Newcastle boss Eddie Howe’s attack. He has what it takes to help the Magpies challenge across all fronts in the coming seasons. At 22, he has still got a lot of room for improvement in his game but could prove himself to be a success story at St. James’ Park in the long run.
Hence, it makes sense for Howe to launch a move to bring Zirkzee on board when the transfer window reopens this January or at the end of this season. However, only time will tell whether he can find a way to make a smooth transition to life in English football.
