The latest player to be added to Leeds United’s shortlist is Manchester United attacker Joshua Zirkzee, and now, Ruben Amorim’s side have laid out their January demands.
Leeds are set to enter the January market in search of attacking reinforcements. Contrary to Robbie Evans’ claim about PSR, LeedsUnited.News understands Leeds do have room to spend in the January window.
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“This summer, we spent everything we could. Unequivocally, we are maxing PSR out this season. If we had gone on to other targets [on deadline day], the consequences would have been seen in the current roster. More key players from last season would have had to go.”
Robbie Evans on Leeds United’s PSR position
Daniel Farke managing Leeds United away to Manchester City
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
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While the recent form of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha has lessened the need for a proper centre-forward, Leeds are likely to be looking for an attacking player who can play off Calvert-Lewin.
The England star is on fire, but Leeds do lack that connectivity at times between the attack and defence. Noah Okafor has started the last two games, doing okay. Joshua Zirkzee might be the ideal signing.
Joshua Zirkzee in action.
Photo by Nigel French/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
Manchester United’s January demands for Joshua Zirkzee
Since his £36.5m arrival at Old Trafford from Bologna, Zirkzee has failed to live up to the hype he had created while at Bologna. Under Thiago Motta, Zirkzee was the star of the show in a brilliant Bologna side.
But at Man United, he’s struggled to break into the side regularly. New signings Bryan Mbuemo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko have reduced Zirkzee’s game time, and now, Man United are open to his exit.
However, only if Man United’s terms are met. According to TeamTalk, Man United want a fee between £30.6m and £35m if they are to sell Zirkzee in January, a small loss on the initial fee they spent in 2024.
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However, if interested parties are unwilling to sign him permanently in January, then Man United are willing to accept a loan – but only with an obligation. Leeds and West Ham have made Zirkzee enquiries.
Would you take Joshua Zirkzee at Leeds? ⭐
Even if he's currently at Man United?
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Joshua Zirkzee’s stance on Manchester United exit…
It would be perfectly understandable if Zirkzee wanted to leave. It might even be advisable, given the World Cup takes place next summer and Zirkzee needs game time if he is to earn a Netherlands call-up.
However, according to Sky Sports, Zirkzee is keen to remain at Manchester United. Despite his lack of game time, his inability to show his best form at Old Trafford and the World Cup, he wants to stay put.
That may change between now and the opening of the January window, or it could hinge on the sides interested. Leeds would likely mean Zirkzee won’t have to relocate. But Roma are winning the race.
Zirkzee starred in Italy while with Bologna and he knows, with game time, he can sparkle in Italy’s top tier. Man United may prefer to loan him to an English side if they plan to keep him, but they want cash.
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