Everton take on Manchester United on Monday night, in what could be a crucial game for Joshua Zirkzee’s future.
A handful of Everton players have been on international duty, but must now turn their attention back to Premier League action.
Everton head to Old Trafford on Monday night, as David Moyes takes on former employers Manchester United.
United striker Benjamin Sesko has been ruled out through injury, meaning Joshua Zirkzee could feature in attack.
Everton are interested in signing Zirkzee ahead of the January transfer window, and he could now face the Toffees.
Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Manchester United v Everton will be key for Joshua Zirkzee
Everton’s interest in Zirkzee comes as the Dutchman struggles for first-team action at Old Trafford.
Zirkzee hasn’t started a single Premier League game this season and has managed just 82 minutes of action across four substitute appearances.
The 24-year-old is in danger of missing out on the Netherlands squad for the World Cup due to his lack of action.
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Everton are watching Zirkzee’s situation closely, and Monday’s game against United could be pivotal for his future.
The Daily Mail report that sources close to Zirkzee believe a ‘crucial opportunity’ is now opening up after Sesko’s injury.
The belief is that Zirkzee will now receive a chance to shine in place of Sesko, and potentially secure his United future.
If Zirkzee doesn’t start against Everton, that could be the signal that he needs to move on in January.
Joshua Zirkzee still looks more likely to join Roma
Everton may be ready to pounce for Zirkzee in January, but it’s reasonable to question his fit in the team.
Zirkzee has not proven himself as a centre forward, and he has never really been able to score goals regularly.
The Dutchman is arguably better as a number 10, which really isn’t what Everton need right now.
Roma are also interested in Zirkzee, and a return to Italy makes a little more sense.
Zirkzee was superb for Bologna in Serie A, and heading back to Italian football could appeal.
Everton will certainly pay attention to United’s team sheet on Monday night, but fellow target Ivan Toney looks a more sensible target than Zirkzee.