Man United 'move ahead of AC Milan in the race to sign Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee'... but will have to wait until AFTER Euro 2024 for Netherlands star to make a decision over his future

Man United have reportedly moved into the lead in the race to sign Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee. 

Zirkzee caught the eye as he scored 12 goals in all competitions last season, while proving his link up play was also of a high standard as he provided seven assists.

It was previously reported the 23-year-old has a £33.7million buy out clause and had been targeted by AC Milan, who were considered front runners for his signature. 

However, new reports from Italy claim that the Red Devils are now considered favourites to land Zirkzee but will have to wait until after Euro 2024 to do so. 

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan's move for the forward stalled amid hefty agent demands and has not progressed since. 

The outlet claim that while United's move hasn't progressed a fair amount, they still remain the front runners to land the Netherlands international. 

However, any potential deal will have to wait until after Euro 2024, where the Bologna star is currently away with the Netherlands national side. 

Zirkzee was a late call-up to the squad - following Frenkie de Jong's injury which ruled him out the competition - and is yet to make an appearance in Germany. 

Man United, meanwhile, are also moving closer to signing Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt, as they look to bolster their defensive options this summer. 

De Ligt, who was in Holland’s squad for the Euro 2024 victory over Romania, is keen to work with his old Ajax boss Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.

United are ready to offer De Ligt, 24, a five-year contract if they can strike a deal for £42m including add-ons with Bayern Munich, who need the money to sign Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen as his replacement.

United want De Ligt to play on the right side of central defence and have not given up hope of signing Branthwaite to play alongside him on the left if they can sell players to raise the funds.

An opening bid of £38m plus £5m in add-ons was rejected by Everton who don’t want to sell the 22-year-old but could be forced to listen to offers in the region of £70m.

United are unlikely to go that high but are weighing up an improved offer for Branthwaite who is understood to have grown increasingly agitated over the lack of movement in negotiations.

However, United are expected to step up their transfer business now Dan Ashworth has been cleared to start work as sporting director as they look to bring in a striker and defensive midfielder as well.