Chelsea have become the latest club to reportedly join the race to sign Bologna star Joshua Zirkzee.
The striker has managed 10 goals and six assists from 27 games this season, and his impressive performances haven’t gone unnoticed.
That’s according to Tutto Juve, who state Chelsea are one of the clubs following the 22-year-old. The Blues are mentioned in a report that states Barcelona are keeping tabs on the frontman.
Chelsea’s interest is also discussed by Sportitalia. They say he’s become one of the ‘key’ players under Bologna manager Thiago Motta this season.
With regards to Mauricio Pochettino’s side, it’s claimed they have ‘entered the fight to acquire’ the Dutchman’s services. Along with Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United are named as interested parties.
Over at Quotidiano Sportivo, they say Bologna value him at €60m. He has a €40m release clause valid only for his former club, Bayern Munich. AC Milan are also interested in the fronntman but will backout if the asking price goes above €60m.
Last Friday, Calciomercato reported Bologna are requesting over €45m for Zirkzee and the asking price has now been increased to €60m in a few days. It feels like the Italian media are trying to create a perception of a potential bidding war, to favour the Serie A side.
This has ben going on for a while and it appears there’s a distinct effort to hype Zirkzee’s level, and therefore value, to higher than what it is. Dragging Chelsea into the picture could be part of that.
