Bologna’s Dutch sensation Joshua Zirkzee has garnered widespread attention with his exceptional goal-scoring and playmaking abilities.

Premier League clubs are especially keen, and it seems Arsenal has a potential advantage in the race to sign the in-demand striker.

Arsenal’s position in the race for Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee continues to impress Serie A fans, and this hasn’t gone unnoticed in the Premier League. His current tally of 10 goals and six assists in 27 games is attracting major interest.

Recent reports indicate Arsenal is emerging as a strong contender to sign the striker. “On Friday, Calciomercato reported Italian clubs must watch out for Arsenal in the chase for Bologna star Joshua Zirkzee,” wrote Sport Witness. JuveLive.it backs this up, with SW adding: “Arsenal are the only English club named in the report” and that the Gunners are emerging as the ‘main contenders’.

Mikel Arteta and Arsenal are said to be “ready to make an important offer to secure the 22-year-old’s services”.

His current valuation is reportedly €45-50m.

Advantage Arsenal?

One potentially crucial factor could give Arsenal an edge: “Arsenal first and foremost, interested in the player and with excellent relationships with those who represent him,” says the report.

These pre-existing relationships with Zirkzee’s agents could smooth negotiations and give the Gunners a distinct advantage.

Represented by Kia Joorabchian’s Sports Invest UK Ltd, Zirkzee’s fellow clients include former Arsenal men, Auston Trusty, Willian, and Omari Hutchinson as well as current Arsenal defender, Cedric. He also has a few players who have been linked with a move to Arsenal, including Douglas Luiz and Philippe Coutinho.

Zirkzee’s rising value and complex buyout situation

Zirkzee’s performances are said to be driving clubs “crazy.” However, Bologna will certainly aim for a big return on their investment. There’s also a significant buyback clause held by Bayern Munich of around €40m, further complicating matters for other interested clubs.

“At the moment his value is between 50 and 60 million euros. This is because the 40 million clause is valid only for Bayern Munich: in the event of resale to another club, therefore, the Bavarians can purchase him and also have priority,” clarifies Calciomercato.

A pivotal summer transfer window

While Juventus had expressed interest as reported by multiple sources, Arsenal may hold the power position. Bologna likely hopes for a bidding war in the summer among multiple Premier League clubs – a war Arsenal seems primed to win should they decide to enter it.