Juventus are considering a move for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the transfer deadline, according to Sky Italy journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
The Serie A side reportedly view Zirkzee as an alternative to Crystal Palace frontman Jean-Philippe Mateta and Fenerbahce’s Youssef En-Nesyri in their ongoing search for a new number nine.
With deals for both Mateta and En-Nesyri appearing unlikely, Juventus are weighing up their options and could end up pursuing Zirkzee amid his limited playing time this season.
The 24-year-old has yet to appear in a matchday squad under new interim boss Michael Carrick, missing wins over Manchester City and Arsenal.
Juventus Eyeing Joshua Zirkzee Swoop
Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee reacts to a decision vs Burnley
According to Di Marzio, Juventus are discussing their next move after a deal for En-Nesyri stalled over the weekend and may yet move for Zirkzee before the February 2 deadline.
Fellow Serie A side Roma are long-term admirers of the Dutchman but are believed to have cooled their interest after United initially closed the door on Zirkzee’s departure earlier this month.
With the 'special' 24-year-old absent from Carrick’s squad for two consecutive games, the situation could still change in the final week of the winter window.
Zirkzee is currently a third-choice striker under Carrick, with Bryan Mbeumo starting both of the 44-year-old's first two Premier League matches and Benjamin Sesko deputising off the bench.
With only 15 games left to play this season, United may be open to Zirkzee’s departure, as he is unlikely to feature unless injuries affect players ahead of him in the pecking order.
Zirkzee has featured 16 times across all competitions this season, scoring two goals. The 'incredible' 24-year-old joined United from Serie A club Bologna in 2024 and is under contract until 2029.
Man Utd Set for Quiet End to January Window?
Michael Carrick
Yet to register any major transfer activity in January, Manchester United remain unlikely to make any new signings ahead of the February 2 deadline.
The Red Devils appear to have no pressing need to invest in Carrick’s squad following back-to-back wins over Manchester City and Arsenal, which lifted them to fourth in the Premier League.
United are anticipated to move for a new midfielder after the season, when Casemiro is expected to depart Old Trafford upon the expiry of his contract.
The Brazilian’s exit will free up significant wages, with the former Real Madrid midfielder believed to be earning £300,000 per week.
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