The journalist said a £33.7m deal has been agreed.

Fabrizio Romano has claimed Manchester United are on the verge of completing their first signing of the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils have been edging closer to finalising a deal for the arrival of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for several weeks, with the club in discussions over whether to pay the player’s release fee or agree a more staggered payment structure at a higher price.

An update was expected after Zirzkee’s involvement at Euro 2024 and, less than 24 hours after the Netherlands’ elimination at the hands of England, Romano revealed a deal is in place for the striker.

“Joshua Zirkzee to Manchester United, here we go!,” he wrote on X. “Man United will NOT trigger the clause but pay slightly above €40m with better payment terms, in three years.

“Zirkzee signs until June 2029 with option for further season. First signing of INEOS new era.”

The 23-year-old, who scored 11 goals for Bologna last season, will offer competition for a starting berth up front with Rasmus Hojlund. The Dane finished last season as the club’s only recognised striker, and adding depth in that area was always seen as a priority this summer.

The signing will represent another Dutch arrival during Ten Hag’s time as manager. The former Ajax boss has already signed Tyrell Malacia and Wout Weghorst during his time at Old Trafford, with Matthijs de Ligt another possible arrival this summer, along with three new coaches from the Netherlands: Rene Hake, Ruud van Nisetelrooy and Jelle ten Rouwelaar, although the latter’s arrival has not yet been confirmed.