‘If Vinny calls’: Ex-Bayern Munich striker – previously of interest to Everton, Newcastle United & West Ham – teases Burnley move
The 22-year-old played under Kompany at Anderlecht, where he scored 18 goals and provided 12 assists in 45 appearances.
His form in Belgium earned the forward a move to Serie A side Bologna, where he’s since endured a challenging first season in Italy, scoring just twice in 21 appearances in all competitions.
Despite his lack of goalscoring form, Zirkzee is still a player with plenty of potential – having previously represented German giants Bayern Munich and netting seven goals in eight appearances for the Netherland’s Under-21 side.
Addressing the notion of reuniting with Kompany at Turf Moor, Zirkzee told Flemish outlet Het Nieuwsblad: “Has Kompany called yet? No, although I am in contact with many other Burnley staff.
“Not necessarily about a transfer. But if Vinny calls, it might open a door that I would like to walk through.”
Zirkzee played for both ADO Den Haag and Feyenoord as a youngster before earning a move to Munich in 2017.
The striker made his debut two years later, against Tottenham no less in the Champions League.
He scored four times in 12 outings for Munich, where he also enjoyed loan spells with both Parma and Anderlecht.
Zirkzee, who has previously turned down Everton on two occasions, was also linked with Fulham, Newcastle United and West Ham last summer.
Standing at 6ft 4ins, Zirkzee is renowned for his hold-up play and ability to come short. He’s also noted for his movement in the box and footwork in tight areas.
READ MORE
Burnley’s Arijanet Muric references fight for number one shirt amid transfer speculation
The 24-year-old had a debut year to remember with the Clarets, making 41 appearances in all competitions as Vincent Kompany’s men stormed to the Championship title.
Despite the goalkeeper’s good form, his place in the team isn’t certain given strong speculation this summer linking Burnley with other goalkeepers.
It was widely reported the Clarets were in for Anderlecht stopper Bart Verbruggen, but it appears they’ve been priced out of a move with their Premier League rivals Brighton set to beat them to the chase.
Antwerp’s Jean Butez, James Trafford, of Manchester City, and former Leyton Orient keeper Lawrence Vigouroux have also been linked with a move to Turf Moor.
When asked about his feelings towards the club’s return to the Premier League, he seemed to make reference to his number one spot not being guaranteed.
“I’m trying to do my best to improve every day,” the Kosovan told the club’s official website.
“Of course it’s the best league and I hope we compete and do our best. I think we can do this. We’re a good team.
“I’ll tell you how I feel if I start!”
Bailey Peacock-Farrell, another goalkeeper that has been linked with a move away this summer, has so far provided cover for Muric.
Despite the 26-year-old’s desire to start regular games, Muric insists the duo will always strive to push each other in training for the betterment of the team.
“Me and Bailey are always good,” Muric said.
“We compete and every day he pushes me in training because he trains very well. He’s just a nice guy.”
Muric made the move to East Lancashire last summer from Man City, having previously spent time on loan with Nottingham Forest, Girona, NAC Breda among others.
Despite his relatively tender years as a goalkeeper, the Swiss-born stopper admits he’s something of a late developer.
“I did more karate when I was a little child, I didn’t even know about football until I was 10 or 11,” he revealed.
“I started with my friends as an outfield player and because I wasn’t that great – but I was brave – one goalkeeping coach said ‘okay, maybe try as a goalkeeper’.”
Leave a Reply