Bayern Munich: Joshua Zirkzee closing on move to Anderlecht
After the return of senior players this week, Bayern Munich will accelerate with plans for fringe players. Joshua Zirkzee could be the first player on his way out as the Dutch striker was omitted from the squad for the friendly against Napoli.
According to Sport1, Zirkzee is set to join Anderlecht on a season-long loan. The Belgian club was facing competition from Hellas Verona, but it does look like they have managed to convince Die Roten and the player to complete the deal.
Zirkzee had endured a difficult loan spell at Parma in the second half of the season. He struggled for playing time before suffering a serious injury that abruptly halted his campaign. The young forward returned to Bavaria as Parma didn’t take up the option to make the transfer permanent.
The Dutch striker enjoyed a breakthrough season during the treble-winning campaign. However, the arrival of Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting significantly reduced his playing time. Zirkzee featured for the reserves during the first half of last season.
❗️News #Zirkzee: His loan move to @rscanderlecht is close to be done. That is why he is not in the squad today. There are a lot of options for him but the Belgians have got „the best cards“. Announcement of his new club after this weekend at the latest. @SPORT1 #FCBayern
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) July 31, 2021
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Joshua Zirkzee endured a difficult pre-season with Die Roten in July. He was at the receiving end of unnecessary criticism after his miss against Ajax. The Dutch striker had an empty net to aim, but he took too long to release the shot. Reports in Germany hinted that the Dutch striker has struggled to make a case for himself in the first team during three weeks of pre-season training.
After an explosive start, Zirkzee needs some sort of stability to get back to his best. A loan move to Anderlecht will help him to rediscover himself. The Dutchman may not have a long-term future at the club, but there are big hopes for his career from the club hierarchy.
Hasan Salihamidzic recently defended the young striker in the media after he was criticized for the miss. The club’s sporting director insisted that the Dutch striker will have a fantastic career ahead. A good loan spell at Anderlecht will help Zirkzee to get a good move next summer or replace Choupo-Moting in the squad.
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After sorting the future of Zirkzee, Die Roten will be looking to move on other fringe players. Die Roten has reportedly placed five players in the transfer market to raise funds for further new signings. The German Champions are looking to add a midfielder to the squad before the end of the window, while winger and right-back are other positions to address.