I turned down Everton contract to join Bayern Munich – now I’m wanted by Man Utd

Manchester United's potential new signing, Joshua Zirkzee, has revealed that Everton once came close to securing his services.

The 23-year-old Bologna striker, who is currently on Erik ten Hag's radar, has been in discussions with United, as they look to bolster their attacking options. Zirkzee, however, has a history with Premier League interest, having previously revealed his near-move to Everton back in 2017 when he was trialling at Goodison Park.

"Everton was a serious option for me," Zirkzee recounted to Voetbal International in 2020. The Dutch forward also revealed that then coach Ronald Koeman gave him a feeling that he could've made it big at the Blues and was even offered a deal to sign for the Toffees.

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He said: "Ronald Koeman was coach, Romelu Lukaku left for Manchester United that summer and I got the feeling from Everton that there was a good chance I could really become something there. They even offered me a contract whilst I was on trial."

Despite the allure of stepping into Lukaku's shoes, Zirkzee's path took a different turn when Bayern Munich entered the fray, enticing him with the prospect of emulating Robert Lewandowski, which ultimately led to him turning down Everton for the German giants.

Zirkzee's journey saw him rise through the ranks at Bayern following his transfer from Feyenoord's academy in 2017. He was elevated to the first team under the guidance of Hansi Flick in November 2019. After stints on loan at Parma and Anderlecht, Zirkzee made a permanent move to Bologna in 2022 for a fee of €8.5 million.

Zirkzee has flourished during his stint in Italy, netting 11 league goals and providing five assists as they secured a Champions League spot for the first time. The striker also earned a call-up to Ronald Koeman's 26-man squad for Euro 2024 and remained an unused substitute in the Netherlands' 2-1 triumph over Poland on Sunday.

As reported by The Athletic, the young Dutch sensation is believed to be one of three options on United's wishlist to enhance their attacking line-up. According to The Athletic, Zirkzee's contract carries a €40million (£34m) release clause that could simplify a potential move for Zirkzee, although negotiations between the two clubs would still need to occur.