Manchester United’s pursuit of former Barcelona forward Vitor Roque hinges on Joshua Zirkzee’s potential exit.
Manchester United seek more quality in the final third following Benjamin Sesko’s injury. The Red Devils are interested in acquiring the services of Vitor Roque, who has revived himself following his return to Brazil.
According to Pete O’Rourke via Football Insider, United are considering a move for the Brazilian attacker in the upcoming transfer window, with Joshua Zirkzee’s future potentially holding the key to Ruben Amorim’s plans for a bold January move.
Zirkzee’s time at Old Trafford
Following his impressive rise at Bologna, Manchester United forked out a significant fee to sign the Dutch international in the summer of 2024. While he certainly has a lot of potential, things haven’t clicked for him at Old Trafford.
He has gone down the pecking order under Amorim and hasn’t had enough minutes so far this season. The 24-year-old forward has been linked with a move away, amidst interest from clubs like West Ham and Everton.
Zirkzee’s potential departure in the winter window could help them push for a new striker. The Red Devils have their eyes set on Roque. Following his impressive performances at Athletico-PR, he secured a move to Barcelona at the start of 2024.
Unfortunately, things didn’t go according to plan for him at the Catalan club. After a year full of struggles, he returned to Brazil to join Palmeiras at the start of the year. The 20-year-old has revived his career with some impressive performances in South America.
He has been involved in 52 matches for his new club and has contributed towards 25 goals. His sensational performances have caught United’s attention, who are looking for more quality in the final third.
O’Rourke on Roque to United
While speaking about United’s chances of signing Roque in January, O’Rourke said: “It’d be a bit of a gamble, I think, if somebody like United was to move for Roque in January.
“I think a deal in January would be unlikely right now. A lot will depend on what happens with Joshua Zirkzee if United were to let him go.
“They would probably need to bring in a replacement because they are short of attacking options, especially with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo going away in January to the African Cup of Nations.
“So, there’s a lot of permutations that have to happen at Old Trafford in January.
“I don’t think ideally United want to weaken their squad at all and, if Zirkzee doesn’t leave, I don’t expect them to bring in a new forward in January either.”
The Red Devils are among several clubs interested in his signature. For Amorim’s side, however, any potential deal will only happen if Zirkzee departs. With both Mbeumo and Diallo set to leave for international duty, they can’t afford to lose another forward at this stage.
Should Zirkzee be sold, United are expected to move quickly for a replacement. But if the Dutchman stays put, it’s unlikely the Red Devils will pursue another attacking signing midway through the season.