Manchester United have completed the transfer of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee in a deal worth more than €40 million ($43m), the club announced on Sunday.
Zirkzee has signed a contract at United until June 2029 with the option to extend it for another season.
“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,” Zirkzee said.
“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.
“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.”
Sources had told ESPN that the two club’s had agreed a deal worth more than the release clause in Zirkzee’s contract in order to allow the Premier League club to pay less of the fee up front.
Zirkzee was a target for a number of clubs this summer, including last season’s Serie A runners-up AC Milan, but will now compete with Rasmus Højlund for the starting striker spot at Old Trafford next season.
Dan Ashworth, United’s sporting director, said: “Securing a forward to enhance our already strong group of attacking players was a key aim for this summer. We are delighted that we’ve managed to sign a player of Joshua’s calibre this early in the transfer window.
“Joshua is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impact for Manchester United. His ability and desire to grow into a world-class player means that he will be a great addition to the squad that we are building for the exciting season ahead and beyond.”
The 23-year-old scored 12 goals for Bologna last term and has become United’s first signing of the summer.
Information from ESPN’s Rob Dawson contributed to this report.