Dream Man United attack after £36m Zirkzee transfer with Hojlund role clear

Manchester United are expected to announce the arrival of Joshua Zirkzee as their first summer signing over the coming days. Interest from Old Trafford in the Bologna star was first revealed in mid-June with a move to activate his €40million (£33.7m) release clause being explored.

Alongside Zirkzee, United have shown an interest in Ivan Toney and Jonathan David, but it looks as though the 23-year-old will be the chosen striker signing. United have agreed to pay €42.5m (£36m) for Zirkzee, with the payments staggered over a three-year period.

A medical in Manchester has already been scheduled with Erik ten Hag now expected to look at wrapping up other signings. Jarrad Branthwaite, Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte and Matthijs de Ligt are all of concrete interest to United with a deal for the latter edging closer.

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Strengthening in both midfield and defence is now the priority which suggests United will head into the new campaign with the attacking options already at their disposal. In the latter stages of last season, Ten Hag made a significant change to his frontline which saw Bruno Fernandes deployed as a false nine.

That tactical tweak saw Rasmus Hojlund often named on the bench but the Denmark international was still able to make an impact on several occasions. Marcus Rashford endured a challenging campaign to say the least, with exit links emerging as a result.

Antony has also struggled to make a lasting impact, however both Amad and Alejandro Garnacho have enjoyed breakout seasons. With only four spots in attack available, Ten Hag is facing a number of important decisions, though Fernandes is arguably the first name on the team sheet.

While Zirkzee is expected to play a key role next season, an immediate place in the starting XI is unlikely with Hojlund regaining his place as United work to find a more balanced midfield that can see Fernandes return to his favoured position.

Out wide, based on last season’s displays, Garnacho starting on the left with Amad on the right should complete the front four with Rashford and Antony on the bench. Having three great options ready to make an impact will prove vital for Ten Hag with injuries likely to occur.

United dream attack: Amad, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund.