Aston Villa break the bank for Bologna star Zirkzee

According to reports in Italy, Aston Villa are prepared to pay up to €70m for Bologna striker and Milan target Joshua Zirkzee.

The centre-forward is widely expected to leave the Stadio Dall’Ara at the end of the season, even if the Rossoblu qualify for the Champions League, as they are currently fourth in Serie A.

Milan are among the favourites for his signature, ready to offer €50m cash plus ownership of Alexis Saelemaekers, with Juventus, Manchester United and Arsenal also interested.

However, Il Resto del Carlino newspaper claim that Aston Villa have already been in contact with agent Kia Joorabchian to discuss a move to the Premier League.

They would be able to pay the full €60-70m asking price, especially if they qualify for the Champions League, and can blow past the current €2m per season salary cap at Bologna by doubling that wage.

However, it remains to be seen if Zirkzee would consider that a step up from Bologna, especially if the Rossoblu also get into the Champions League.

There is also the Bayern Munich issue to contend with, because they still have a buy-back clause in his contract worth €40m.

It is entirely possible the Germans could activate that to then sell Zirkzee on at a profit.

Either way, Bayern are going to make money from this, because they pocket 40 per cent of the Bologna sell-on fee.