Manchester United transfer round-up as the future of a striker seemingly heading for the exit door takes a fresh twist
Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui jump for a header
There is interest in Manchester United's Noussair Mazraoui(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
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As deliberations over the appointment of an interim manager continue, Manchester United also have to navigate the transfer window.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is holding discussions with club executives this weekend about potentially taking the reins for the remainder of the season following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim. Another Old Trafford legend, ex-Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick, is also being considered as the club delays the appointment of a permanent boss until the summer.
Amorim's exit has reshaped the prospects for several United players, with some now more likely to stay, while others may find themselves nudged closer to the exit. Here's a summary of the latest United transfer news...
Zirkzee move halted
Joshua Zirkzee could be given another opportunity at Old Trafford in the wake of Amorim's departure. The £36m Dutch forward has been wanted by Roma on loan with a view to a permanent deal. With players participating in the Africa Cup of Nations, United had been holding off on making a final decision.
Zirkzee was open to the move, but it now appears that the transfer has been put on hold. Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport reports that United have called off the deal following Amorim's departure, leaving Roma disappointed.
Joshua Zirkzee
Joshua Zirkzee's move to Roma looks to be off(Image: Getty Images)
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The report suggests that the deal could be revived if the new interim manager decides he doesn't want Zirkzee. However, working under a former top striker like Solskjaer could revitalise Zirkzee's United career.
Juve target Mazraoui
Juventus are reportedly planning to capitalise on the managerial uncertainty at Old Trafford by making a move for Noussair Mazraoui, according to Gazzetta dello Sport
The Moroccan is said to be on Juve's shortlist, with the Italian giants are aiming to sign a winger and a full-back this month. Mazraoui is currently playing at AFCON, having helped Morocco secure a 2-0 quarter-final win over Cameroon, featuring Bryan Mbeumo.
Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui jump for a header
Noussair Mazraoui remains at AFCON after Morocco defeated Bryan Mbeumo's Cameroon in the quarter-finals(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
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Morocco's semi-final is scheduled for Wednesday, with the final and third-place play-off taking place next weekend. This means Mazraoui won't return to the UK until the last part of January.
Juve believe that the versatile 28-year-old would bolster their title challenge and feel that the current instability at Old Trafford could work in their favour, the report adds.
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