Napoli have opened dialogue with Joshua Zirkzee’s entourage over a potential summer transfer that could see the Dutch forward leave Manchester United.
Like Manchester United, Napoli are making their plans for the upcoming transfer window.
Napoli have conducted three deals with United since 2022. The first saw former academy graduate Axel Tuanzebe join the Serie A outfit on loan. But there is no disputing that Scott McTominay was the most successful deal for Napoli, as he inspired the team to Serie A success in his debut campaign.
Last summer, Napoli signed Rasmus Hojlund on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy, granted they secure Champions League qualification.
Napoli's Belgian forward Romelu Lukaku looks on during the
Photo by Antonio Balasco/KONTROLAB/LightRocket via Getty Images
Did Manchester United make a mistake sending Rasmus Hojlund on loan?
Rasmus Hojlund celebrates against Juventus
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Joshua Zirkzee could replace Romelu Lukaku at Napoli
Former United striker Romelu Lukaku is being linked with a move away from Napoli after irritating his club during the March international break.
Lukaku, 32, withdrew from international duty but stayed in Belgium for rehabilitation rather than reporting back to Naples.
It has been suggested in Italian media that Lukaku could face disciplinary actions, which could potentially mean exclusion from Antonio Conte’s squad.
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La Gazzetta dello Sport claim Lukaku is recovering from a hip issue, but there was no sign of it beforehand.
Lukaku’s situation is a mystery as of now, but it is believed that he is weighing up his options amid interest from Anderlecht and Besiktas.
According to Napoli Magazine, Napoli are beginning to look for Lukaku’s replacement, with two targets already identified. They include United’s Joshua Zirkzee and Fiorentina’s Moise Kean.
The report adds that Napoli have had ‘significant discussions’ with Zirkzee’s entourage.
Napoli are understood to be studying the deal, but it’s not the first time Zirkzee has been linked with a United exit.
Should Manchester United KEEP or SELL Joshua Zirkzee in summer 2026?
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Romelu Lukaku held back by injury struggles
It’s been a difficult season for Lukaku.
The Belgian striker, who scored 42 goals in 96 matches for United, has missed most of the 2026/27 campaign due to injuries.
That has led to Lukaku making just seven appearances across all competitions, scoring just one goal.
In comparison, Hojlund has played 37 games and scored 14 goals along with four assists.
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