Transfer Centre

Man United 'make contact' over move for former Sir Jim Ratcliffe winger

By Ben Sully | 26 June 2024

New transfer target: Man United 'keen' on Swiss winger

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe could reportedly make a move to sign one of his former players from Serie A side Bologna.

Manchester United have reportedly made an approach over a potential move for Bologna winger Dan Ndoye.

The 23-year-old is currently plying his trade in Italy after joining Bologna from Swiss side Basel during last summer's transfer window.

Ndoye experienced an encouraging campaign with the Italian team, scoring three goals and providing five assists in 38 competitive appearances.

The wideman was ultimately part of a Bologna side that achieved Champions League qualification via a fifth-placed finish.

Germany's Antonio Rudiger in action with Switzerland's Dan Ndoye on June 23, 2024 © Reuters

Man United made contact over Ndoye deal

However, rather than his club form, it is his performances at Euro 2024 that appear to be drawing significant attention.

Ndoye played 86 minutes in both of Switzerland's first two games against Hungary and Scotland, before providing an assist in Sunday's final group meeting with Germany.

According to Gianluca Dimarzio, Ndoye's impressive performance against the tournament hosts caught the eye of Premier League giants Man United.

The report claims that the Red Devils have already made contact with Bologna to discuss a potential transfer for Ndoye.

Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe will be fully aware of Ndoye's talents, having employed the attacker at Lausanne and Nice – two clubs that are owned by his INEOS group.

Bologna's Joshua Zirkzee on May 11, 2024 © Reuters

Could Man United sign two Bologna players this summer?

The Red Devils are facing competition for Ndoye's signature, with several Italian clubs believed to be paying close attention to his current situation.

Serie A winners Inter Milan are among those who could rival Man United as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of their title defence.

While Man United are in the mix for Ndoye, they are also showing a keen interest in his Bologna teammate Joshua Zirkzee.

A recent report claimed that Erik ten Hag's side were prepared to activate the €40m (£33.8m) release clause in Zirkzee's Bologna contract.

The Dutchman has emerged as a transfer target for several top European clubs after scoring 11 goals and contributing five assists in 34 league matches last season.