The stage is set for the grand finale of Euro 2024, which takes place this Sunday in Berlin. The anticipation is not just for the showdown on the field but also for the bustling activities off it, particularly the transfer market that has been heating up, fueled by some monumental potential deals involving key players from the tournament.
Joshua Zirkzee's Emergence
Among the standout stories is that of Joshua Zirkzee, who was a last-minute call-up for Euro 2024 after Brian Brobbey's unfortunate injury. Zirkzee, currently plying his trade as a striker for Bologna, has seized the opportunity with both hands, catching the eye of major European clubs with his impressive performances. Bologna, aware of the growing interest, is keen to retain their prized asset.
Zirkzee's contractual situation adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. With a release clause set at €40 million, the striker has inevitably become a hot commodity. AC Milan had engaged in advanced talks with Zirkzee before the tournament started, showing serious interest in bringing him to San Siro. However, the dynamic nature of the transfer market has seen Manchester United enter the fray, reportedly reaching an agreement on personal terms with the talented forward. Negotiations between Manchester United and Bologna are now in progress to finalize the deal.
Milan's Shift in Focus
AC Milan's pursuit of Zirkzee appears to have cooled as they recalibrate their transfer strategy. The departure of Olivier Giroud to LAFC has left a significant void in their attacking options. Consequently, they've now set their sights on Alvaro Morata, a seasoned striker with extensive experience at top clubs like Juventus and Atletico Madrid.
Morata, who is being courted by Milan to spearhead their attack next season, comes with a €13 million release clause—a far more manageable figure compared to Zirkzee's. Milan's challenge lies in convincing Morata to return to Serie A, a league he knows well. As rumors swirl, insiders suggest Milan is optimistic about clinching the deal.
Movements in the Spanish Capital
Elsewhere, in Spain, Atletico de Madrid is on the brink of securing the services of Robin Le Normand. Real Sociedad has agreed to a potential €30 million fee for the defender, with only medicals and the signing of a long-term contract standing in the way of the move being finalized.
Le Normand’s anticipated arrival at the Wanda Metropolitano is seen as a pivotal reinforcement in Diego Simeone's backline, as Atletico looks to fortify their defensive ranks for another competitive campaign in La Liga.
PSG's Strategic Loan Moves
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is also making strategic moves in the market, particularly concerning their prodigious talent, Xavi Simons. Regarded as a key player for PSG's future, Simons is likely to leave on a season-long loan this summer to gain valuable playing time. Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig are both vying for his signature on loan, emphasizing the high priority PSG places on Simons' development.
Bayern's Interest in Milan's Theo Hernandez
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich's attention appears to be straying to AC Milan's Theo Hernandez. Despite his contract running until the summer of 2026, speculation about a potential move has intensified. While Milan has publicly denied any possibility of Hernandez leaving, the rumor mill continues to churn.
Hernandez himself, perhaps reflecting the uncertainty of the situation, was quoted as saying, "I don't know what will happen." Whether this points to the possibility of a late move in the transfer window remains to be seen, but it promises to keep fans and pundits on the edge of their seats.
The upcoming days promise to be electric, not only because of the impending Euro 2024 final but also due to the whirlwind of transfer activity. As deals get negotiated, the football world watches with bated breath, eager to see where these footballing talents will showcase their skills in the coming season.