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Talks stepped up: Man Utd now in direct negotiations for loan-plus-obligation deal over £37m player

Juventus have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Joshua Zirkzee after learning of Manchester United’s willingness to facilitate a loan deal.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Red Devils would sanction a loan departure as long as a buy obligation is included.

Juventus would prefer that it be a buy option instead, but would accept United’s terms depending on the conditions to make his transfer permanent.

Joshua Zirkzee opens door to Juventus switch

Zirkzee himself is said to be keen on the move to the Allianz Stadium, having previously spent two years in the Italian top flight during his stint with Bologna.

While he didn’t boast the most eye-catching Serie A record, returning 13 goals and seven assists in 57 games, United saw enough to warrant activating his £36.5 million release clause.

WHAT A GOAL BY JOSHUA ZIRKZEE. 🔥 https://t.co/zLc7S8ksCo pic.twitter.com/fguNy470sk

— Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) July 24, 2026

However, whether it be due to a lack of chances or simply just a struggle to transition to the Premier League, Zirkzee has failed to leave a lasting impression in the appearances he has made.

Why a move elsewhere might benefit Zirkzee

The 25-year-old has found the back of the net only five times in the 56 league matches he’s played in for United.

Last season, he was one member of the squad who really felt the effects of United’s premature cup exits and lack of European football, as Zirkzee made just five starts in total across all competitions.

The best of Joshua Zirkzee against Crystal Palace 👌

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 2, 2026

He’ll know heading into 2026/2027 that he still faces an uphill battle to displace the likes of Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha in the starting XI, while the impending return of Marcus Rashford will likely only complicate his situation.

Should the Dutchman decide to embark on a new venture, he would certainly leave with the well wishes of everyone at Old Trafford.

Read more: United ‘considering bid’ for third PL-proven midfielder who played vital role at World Cup

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MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MARCH 15: Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United, acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between Manchester United and Aston Villa at Old Trafford on March 15, 2026 in Manchester, England.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Jason Wilcox in the stands

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 21: A detailed view of the 'No Room For Racism' and Premier League logos on the match shirt sleeve of AFC Bournemouth prior to the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Vitality Stadium on October 21, 2023 in Bournemouth, England

Isabel, 25, is a football writer who has previously gained experience in the industry as the editor of Stretty News, along with work on Caught Offside, Last Word on Football and Give Me Sport. She is now the editor of UtdReport.

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