Manchester United given huge Joshua Zirkzee boost! Red Devils close in on Bologna striker as AC Milan pull out of race

United, and Arsenal have been linked with the 23-year-old for quite some time now, as they look to bolster their attacking options alongside sole striker Rasmus Hojlund. Now, the Independent claims the Red Devils' main rivals in trying to sign the 6ft 4in forward, Milan, are looking elsewhere when it comes to forwards.

United are reportedly preparing to trigger the Bologna man's £33.8million ($42.6m) release clause but the Independent claims no offer for Zirkzee - whose contract runs until 2026 - has been tabled just yet. While the Red Devils remain keen on the former Bayern Munich front man, Milan are said to be put off by the demands of his agent, Kia Joorabchian, who is said to want as much as £12m ($15m) from this transfer.

The report adds that Roma striker Tammy Abraham has been offered to Milan as the Italian giants consider Zirkzee alternatives. If United can't sign the uncapped Dutchman, they are also monitoring Lille striker Jonathan David, who has scored 26 goals in back-to-back seasons for the Ligue 1 outfit.

Zirkzee, who scored 12 goals and bagged seven assists for Bologna this season, is currently at the Euros in Germany following a late call-up to the Netherlands squad. While this competition progresses, negotiations over his future will continue behind the scenes.