Arsenal and Aston Villa target named Best U23 Player in Serie A | OneFootball

Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, a reported target for Arsenal, has been crowned the Best U23 Player in Serie A for the 2023-2024 season.

The Dutch international played a pivotal role in Bologna’s exceptional campaign, helping them secure a coveted UEFA Champions League spot for the first time since 1964-1965. Zirkzee’s stellar performances, including goals against Inter Milan, Atalanta, AC Milan, and Roma, have not gone unnoticed, sparking a potential transfer battle this summer.

BOLOGNA, ITALY – JANUARY 05: Joshua Zirkzee of Bologna FC looks on during the Serie A TIM match between Bologna FC and Genoa CFC at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on January 05, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Arsenal and Aston Villa are reportedly the frontrunners in the race to sign the 22-year-old striker, with both Premier League clubs ready to match Bologna’s €60m valuation. However, the allure of Serie A remains strong, with AC Milan, Inter Milan, and Juventus expressing interest in securing Zirkzee’s services. The financial constraints faced by these Italian giants, however, could hinder their pursuit, giving the English clubs a significant advantage.

Adding another twist to the transfer saga is Bayern Munich‘s €40m buy-back clause. Zirkzee’s former club holds the option to re-sign the talented striker, but it appears that neither party is keen on a reunion at this stage.

Reports suggest Arsenal have offered the player a lucrative €6m net annual salary, a considerable increase from his current earnings. The potential of becoming a regular starter under Mikel Arteta, particularly if Gabriel Jesus departs, could be a deciding factor for the young Dutch forward.