Joshua Zirkzee has struggled badly to convince fans at Manchester United and his future beyond the summer transfer window remains unclear
Joshua Zirkzee looks on
Joshua Zirkzee has never fully settled at Manchester United(Image: Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Juventus are reportedly in advanced talks with Manchester United over a loan move for Joshua Zirkzee. The switch would also include a £30million option to buy for the Italian side.
The striker has been heavily linked with an Old Trafford exit this summer, but wants to earn a place in Michael Carrick's plans. The Dutchman has failed to earn a regular starting spot during his time in M16 - failing to force his way into Ruben Amorim's plans or Carrick's since arriving in Manchester under Erik ten Hag in 2024.
The 25-year-old has managed just five goals in 56 Premier League appearances for United. The Reds are reportedly open to Zirkzee's exit this summer, but the former Bayern Munich youngster is said to be content to stay.
It is claimed that he believes European football at United in 2026/27 will offer him more opportunities under Carrick. The Netherlands international wanted to depart in January but was told by United that it would not be possible.
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However, The Sun now claim a move could be on the cards with Serie A side Juve in talks. The Turin outfit looked set to sign France international Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain after his unsuccessful loan spell with Tottenham Hotspur last season.
But Juventus have reportedly been unable to agree a fee with PSG after negotiations stalled. It is claimed that the Italian team have now quickly pivoted to Zirkzee as they line up a new striker.
Joshua Zirkzee during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United.
Joshua Zirkzee could leave Manchester United this summer. (Image: Steve Bardens/Getty Images)
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Juventus are said to be the most serious club pursuing Zirkzee, though Roma also have a long-time interest in the forward. Luciano Spalletti’s side are reportedly favourites for his signature; however, after moving much faster in talks.
Zirkzee knows Italy's top flight well, having spent one season on loan at Parma and two seasons playing for Bologna. The Dutchman is said to see Serie A as a much better tactical fit for his style of play.
It is claimed that Zirkzee’s representatives have responded positively to Juventus's approach. United are also said to be willing to accept a loan move and £30m buy option despite spending around £36.5m to sign him two years ago.
The report adds that officials recognise the fee is a fair reflection of his value, given his failure to deliver consistency at the club.
Zirkzee was impressive in United's 5-0 pre-season win against Rosenborg last Friday. However, his performances in the Premier League have not been up to par.
The Dutch forward is currently behind Benjamin Sesko and Mateus Cunha in the pecking order at M16, and Marcus Rashford's potential return to the squad could see him fall behind further.