Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee
Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee
Joshua Zirkzee’s time at Manchester United could finally be up and attempts for a return to Italy are underway.
The striker wasn’t a part of Michael Carrick’s plans last season. He played only 24 times in the Premier League overall, featuring for only 609 minutes.
In January, the Dutchman had the chance to move to AS Roma. The Giallorossi couldn’t meet Manchester United’s demands, after Piero Gasperini convinced Zirkzee to move.
Sport Witness covered how the Red Devils only wanted a permanent exit, or a loan with a locked in obligation to buy.
Now, Juventus are in the picture to sign him.
Massara the key
Gazzetta dello Sport report Juve continue to struggle to sign Randal Kolo Muani. They are yet to reach an agreement with PSG over a fee and as a response, they have stepped forward for Zirkzee.
The Manchester United player’s camp have already been contacted. Zirkzee earns €4m per season and his wage demands are unlikely to be an issue for Juve.
New sporting director Ricky Massara will be key. He was at Roma when Zirkzee was close to joining in January. His admiration for the Dutchman hasn’t gone away, with ex-director Cristiano Guintoli also having attempted to sign him during his spell in Turin.
The newspaper confirm that Manchester United have previously rejected loan deals. Now, they could be open to ‘creative’ ideas and they value the player between €35m and €40m.
Our take: Player should push for deal
Zirkzee’s time at Manchester United is up. Carrick used Bryan Mbeumo or Matheus Cunha up front repeatedly. As a result, the 25-year-old missed out on a call-up for the national team.
This summer is a big chance for him to get control of his career. A move to Juve would make a lot of sense. Luciano Spalletti likes strikers who are reliable on the ball and the Bianconeri could offer him regular football.
🚨 Ismaïla Sarr asked about transfer to Manchester United
➡️ All down to Crystal Palacehttps://t.co/NKyt8TmBUb #mufc #cpfc
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) July 21, 2026