Man United sign Dutch forward Zirkzee from Bologna

Manchester United have announced the signing of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna.

Zirkzee, 23, has signed a five-year deal with the option of a further 12 months after United agreed to pay €42.5m, slightly above the Dutch forward’s €40m euros release clause.

It is understood that the the premium is due to United paying the fee over three years rather than in one instalment for a player who helped Bologna qualify for this season’s Champions League.

And Zirkzee, part of the Netherlands squad who reached the Euro 2024 semi-finals, hopes he can have a similarly transformative effect at Old Trafford when he works under compatriot Erik ten Hag.

“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,” the 23-year-old 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.

“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.”

Elsewhere in the Premier League, newly-promoted Southampton have signed Japan defender Yukinari Sugawara on a four-year deal.

The 24-year-old right-back joins from Dutch club AZ Alkmaar, where he played nearly 200 first-team games after joining from Japanese club Nagoya Grampus in 2018.

“To come to Southampton and to play in the Premier League is one of my biggest dreams since I was young, so I am really excited to be here,” the 13-times capped Sugawara told the Saints website.

“I felt Southampton is a really good club. When Southampton gave me an offer, I said yes after one second.”

Former Saints, Arsenal and Aston Villa defender Calum Chambers has joined EFL Championship club Cardiff.

The 29-year-old, who won three caps for England in 2014, has signed a three-year contract with the Bluebirds after leaving Villa earlier this week.

“I’m absolutely delighted, and I can’t wait to get started,” said Chambers.

“I’m at a stage in my career where I want to be ambitious and create memories for myself as well. It was a good time for us both to meet at this point.”