I think Joshua Zirkzee is unlikely to remain at Old Trafford this summer and I have an inkling that the Manchester United striker knows that himself.
Joshua Zirkzee has featured in both of Manchester United’s pre-season tour matches, but that is in the absence of Benjamin Sesko, who has not featured so far.
I have seen the 25-year-old Dutch forward trying to fight for his place at Man Utd, despite it feeling like the writing is on the wall for him at the moment.
Joshua Zirkzee is not short of options if it came to moving on from Old Trafford and it feels like a return to Italy could be his safest bet going forward in his career.
READ MORE: Louis van Gaal’s ‘chosen’ Man Utd pick to emulate Bastian Schweinsteiger’s role is still looking for new club
Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United warms up ahead of the pre-season friendly match between Rosenborg and Manchester United at Lerkendal Stadion on July 24, 2026 in Trondheim, Norway.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Juventus could still be another key option for Joshua Zirkzee amid the developing situation around Randal Kolo Muani
Joshua Zirkzee has attracted the interest of Juventus and other Serie A clubs have been linked with him this summer, including Italian sides Roma and Como.
According to Goal, two unnamed Premier League clubs have shown an interest in the Dutchman and Ajax are also monitoring his situation at the Red Devils as well.
I think that Juventus would suit the playing style of Zirkzee, who could operate in a deep-lying role and tap into his abilities to link up play and hold up the ball.
More United News
The aforementioned approach could become an option for Luciano Spalletti if — and when — Randal Kolo Muani is signed from French side Paris Saint-Germain.
Italy and the Serie A: Juventus, Roma & Como
England and the Premier League: two unnamed Premier League clubs
The Netherlands and the Eredivisie: Ajax
I could see Juventus effectively ending all interest in Zirkzee if Randal Kolo Muani arrives in Turin, but the Turin-based club could look to strengthen further.
Joshua Zirkzee’s goal was sensational! What did you learn from his performance vs Rosenborg?
His best moment in a United shirt?
View X
Dusan Vlahovic left Juventus this summer on a free transfer and the Italian club could be placing all their eggs in one basket with Kolo Muani leading the frontline.
That is not to mention if the Old Lady sees setbacks to young attacking talent like Kenan Yildiz, Francisco Conceicao and Jeff Ekhator in the 2026-27 campaign.
I feel that a deal would all come down to the financials, but there is potential for Zirkzee to play in a supporting role to Kolo Muani with a few tactical tweaks.
I know Zirkzee would be well-equipped to meet the challenges of playing at Juventus after making his name at Serie A side Bologna ahead of his 2024 move to Man Utd.
I could honestly see Juventus trying to conjure up a deal with Man Utd for the former Bologna player, which would be based on a loan move with an option to buy.
Considering Zirkzee’s struggles at Man Utd since his arrival, I would not be against a loan deal if Juventus do plan to reinforce beyond the signing of Kolo Muani.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox