It appears that AC Milan is prepared to pay Joshua Zirkzee’s €40 million release clause, which would effectively end Arsenal hopes of acquiring the Bologna star.

Arsenal have long been linked with the Dutch forward.

However, Italian journalist Matteo Moretto claims Milan are willing to secure his services for £34m ($44m).

According to him, the Rossoneri are working to reach an agreement with the 23-year-old and his agent and there is optimism between all parties.

Zirkzee scored 12 goals and bagged seven assists this season for Bologna.

However, there are reports that he has no desire to leave Serie A.

As a matter of fact, he has set his sights on playing Champions League football next season.

Whether that is with Bologna or Milan remains to be seen.

When asked about his future, the former Bayern Munich man said in late May: “At the moment my mind is only in Bologna.

“I want to recover from the injury, have some nice holidays in the United States with my childhood friends and then we’ll see what happens.

“I’d choose the best for the club.

“I will only do what makes sense in my heart.

“It’s clear that for me it would be wonderful to defend this goal achieved together.

“What we experienced in Piazza Maggiore was unforgettable.”

Read more: Allegri Eyes Premier League, Rejects Lucrative Saudi Offer

Dutch under-21 international Zirkzee, who has been out with a hamstring injury in recent weeks, will step up his recovery in the close season while transfer rumours continue to swirl around him.

Labour Strike: Why NLC President Walked Out On The Govt.