David Moyes
Everton are lining up a back-up option in case their proposed Folarin Balogun transfer falls through, now bidding for Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the transfer deadline. The Toffees only have until 11pm to wrap up their business, though they can extend the deadline a little if a deal sheet can be agreed upon before 11pm.
David Moyes and the club's recruitment staff have been rushing to get a deal for Monaco and USMNT striker Balogun over the line, but GIVEMESPORT understands there have been complications with the player's medical at this stage, leading to a delay.
To prepare for a possible deal collapse, Everton have now reached out to Man Utd over a possible deal for Zirkzee, according to Alan Myers.
He posted on X: "Everton still working on Folarin Balagun deal, meanwhile SSN understands the club has made a bid for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee."
Everton have agreed a €45million deal to sign Everton, which works out at £38.5million. Zirkzee would likely be cheaper than that,if he was to arrive on a permanent deal, but GIVEMESPORT understands a loan deal is close to being agreed.
The forward has not had the best of spells at Old Trafford, hence the Red Devils are willing to sell him this summer, even this close to the deadline. Zirkzee cost United £42.5million, but the Dutchman has only netted five goals in 56 league games.Clearly, he could do with a fresh start, but Everton's preferred option remains getting the Balogun deal over the line, which is still on the cards.
Carrick opened door to Zirkzee opportunity
Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee reacts to a decision vs Burnley
Speaking earlier this summer, Carrick said of Zirkzee: “Josh has been working incredibly hard since the players returned for pre-season, and that’s the first thing that has impressed me. Last season wasn’t the easiest for him, and I don’t think he was able to show the best version of himself consistently. But this pre-season we’ve started to see glimpses of the player we know he can become. His movement, his link-up play and his confidence have all improved.
"A few days ago I called him into my office for a chat. We spoke openly about last season and about the expectations for this one. He looked at me and said, ‘Boss, I want to fight for my place. I don’t want anything handed to me. I want to earn it every single day.’ As he was speaking, I could see it in his eyes. He wasn’t making promises—he believed every word he was saying. That’s the mentality every manager wants from a player.
"I told him, ‘If you keep working the way you are, you’ll always have my support. Talent gets you noticed, but attitude keeps you in the team.’ Josh has responded brilliantly. He’s training with intensity, he’s encouraging his teammates and he’s showing a real hunger to improve. Competition for places is high, but that’s exactly what Manchester United needs. If he continues on this path, I’m confident the supporters will see a completely different Joshua Zirkzee this season.”
But Zirkzee has not been relied upom early in the season, and that does not look likely to change.
USA's Folarin Balogun after red card vs Bosnia
USA's Folarin Balogun after red card vs Bosnia