As Euro 2024 reaches its climax with the grand finale scheduled this Sunday in Berlin, the focus has not only been on the matches and the drama on the pitch but also on the potential moves off it. The transfer market is buzzing with significant developments involving some of the top performers of the tournament, creating a thrilling subplot to the championship.
Joshua Zirkzee's Meteoric Rise
One of the standout stories has been the unexpected rise of Joshua Zirkzee. The striker, currently playing for Bologna, was a last-minute addition to the Euro 2024 squad due to Brian Brobbey's injury. This opportunity has catapulted him into the limelight, attracting interest from some major European heavyweights. Despite Bologna’s determination to retain him, highlighted by a substantial €40 million release clause in his contract, the lure of top-tier clubs may prove irresistible.
Manchester United has swiftly moved into pole position in the race for Zirkzee. Reports suggest that they have successfully agreed on personal terms with the player and are now in the process of negotiating the final details with Bologna. Talks have progressed to an advanced stage, underscoring United's eagerness to bolster their attacking options with the Dutch striker's signature.
Meanwhile, AC Milan, who were initially in advanced discussions with Zirkzee before Euro 2024, have redirected their focus towards another attacking target, Alvaro Morata. This shift in priorities has opened a clearer path for Manchester United to potentially secure Zirkzee's transfer.
AC Milan's Bold Moves
The departure of Olivier Giroud to LAFC has left AC Milan eager to strengthen their frontline. Their sights are now firmly set on Alvaro Morata, a seasoned striker with experience at Juventus and Atletico Madrid. AC Milan is prepared to activate Morata's €13 million release clause, signaling their strong intent to bring him back to Serie A. However, the club still faces the crucial task of persuading the Spanish international to return to Italy for the upcoming season.
Transfer Market Buzz: Le Normand and Hernandez
Elsewhere in the transfer market, Robin Le Normand appears set for a move to Atletico de Madrid. Real Sociedad has agreed to a potential €30 million fee for the defender, contingent on the completion of medicals and the signing of a long-term contract. This transfer is poised to be a significant move for Atletico as they aim to solidify their defensive lineup.
Paris Saint-Germain also finds itself at a crossroads with one of its promising talents, Xavi Simons. The young midfielder is highly regarded by PSG for their future plans, yet a season-long loan is on the cards to ensure his development. Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig are both keen on securing Simons on loan, reflecting his rising profile within European football.
Adding to the excitement, AC Milan's Theo Hernandez has caught the eye of Bayern Munich. Although Hernandez's contract with Milan runs until the summer of 2026, Milan has firmly dismissed any immediate transfer possibilities. However, whispers of a potential late move in the transfer window persist, making Milan's resolve subject to ongoing speculation.
The drama of Euro 2024 has certainly not been limited to the football field. With players like Joshua Zirkzee and Theo Hernandez at the center of intense transfer discussions, fans and pundits alike are eagerly monitoring these unfolding stories. As Theo Hernandez himself succinctly put it, "I don't know what will happen." Such uncertainty only adds to the intrigue and excitement as both the tournament and the transfer window approach their respective climaxes.