Manchester United finally reach agreement with Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee

According to reports, Manchester United has finally agreed on a deal for a striker with Italian giants Bologna in Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the coming season, sources confirm.

It will dwarf that release clause of €40 million ($43 million) that Zirkzee has in his current contract, with United willing to pay a "modest premium" by extending the payment period rather than activating it with an upfront lump sum.

The 23-year-old striker of the Netherlands landed 12 goals for Bologna last season. He has agreed upon personal terms with United to join them on a five-year contract and is subject to a medical examination.

As per reports Zirkzee is Manchester United's first signing in this summer transfer window. The move has been tipped to be a strategic reinforcement for Erik ten Hag's squad as the club aims to build on the progress of the past two seasons.

In a related development, United have confirmed the appointments of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake to Ten Hag's backroom staff, with the pair signing two-year contracts. It refreshes the coaching team, with Steve McClaren and Darren Fletcher staying on as first-team coaches, but Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy going.

"I am pleased that Rene and Ruud have accepted the invitation to join our project, bringing a great deal of experience, expertise, and new energy into the staff," Ten Hag told the club's website. "Now it's a good time for refreshing the coaching team around me as we look to build on the progress achieved in the past two years and now take further steps."

The exodus from the club has also confirmed the exit of midfielder Donny van de Beek, who moved to Girona in an initial €500,000 deal that rose to €9.1 million with add-ons.

With the signing of Zirkzee alongside changes to the coaching staff, Manchester United are preparing for a new charge on the top honours next season.