United initially ruled out a sale for Zirkzee this month and he is expected to stay until the end of the season. They would let him leave if they could sign a new forward though.placeholder image
United initially ruled out a sale for Zirkzee this month and he is expected to stay until the end of the season. They would let him leave if they could sign a new forward though. | Getty Images
Joshua Zirkzee has been linked to joining Serie A side Juventus before the end of the January window.
Man United are yet to make any signings in the January window, but despite that, there has been some significant improvement under Michael Carrick. The United boss oversaw a 3-2 win against Arsenal at the weekend to take the Cityzens back into the top four.
The Dutchman has only scored two goals in 14 Premier League matches this season, so United could potentially be willing to sell him if they find the right replacement.
Man United eyeing move for Rennes superstar
Reports suggest that Man United have found their replacement for Zirkzee, and he is pretty special. According to French newspaper Ouest France, Man United have taken notice of Rennes striker Kader Meite, as their potential replacement for Zirkzee, and could make a move for him in the latter stages of the transfer window.
Meite is just 18, but he is 6 foot 4, and a physical giant of a striker. He is a pure number nine, but has an incredible burst of pace, and many in France believe he could be the next world-class French number nine to burst through.
Despite being just 18, he has made 17 Ligue 1 appearances for Rennes, and it is understood that despite the French club really valuing him, they could be tempted to accept an offer of over £26m, which could be a steal.
Zirkzee would likely command a similar fee, so United would essentially be swapping the Dutchman for a younger, quicker and more physical striker, so it would seem a great piece of business.
Man United also eyeing ex-Barcelona striker
It seems that the young striker is a priority signing for the Red Devils, as Meite isn’t the only one they’ve been linked with. Former Barcelona wonderkid Vitor Roque is also on United’s radar, due to his impressive form for Brazilian side Palmeiras.
The 20-year-old moved from Brazil to Barcelona, but he struggled to get regular game time and ended up making just 16 appearances before returning to Brazil. He moved to Palmeiras and has since really kicked on, scoring 20 goals in 59 games for the club, attracting Premier League interest.
It is understood that Man United, Tottenham and Chelsea are all interested in Roque, but it could be a tough January deal to complete, as Palmeiras have placed a hefty £43m price tag on him, as they are very reluctant to sell. However, if Zirkzee does leave, then look at Roque as well as Meite as two potential replacements for Man United to sign late in the January window.
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