Juventus are keenly monitoring Manchester United ace Joshua Zirkzee as they seek to add another striker to the squad, according to Corriere dello Sport.
The Bianconeri are currently on the cusp of landing Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani, but they are still open to pursuing a second centre-forward.
Corriere dello Sport cite that the Turin giants are keenly monitoring Zirkzee’s situation, and he is a ‘temptation’ for the Bianconeri, given he can also operate behind the number nine.
However, the club still prefer a loan agreement, which would be a cost-effective solution.
Zirkzee is a lucrative choice over re-negotiating terms with current free agent and former Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic, who earns significantly more, according to Corriere dello Sport.
The Dutchman has had a tough career with the Red Devils. He has netted just five goals from 56 league appearances and has often featured off the bench under multiple managers.
Zirkzee hardly managed a regular role upfront last term, even when Benjamin Sesko was injured or benched. Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo got the nod as makeshift options over him.
His situation could be quite similar in the upcoming campaign if he were to stay. United seem open to pursuing a high-profile striker who could provide sterner competition to Sesko.
Someone like Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins would be a perfect choice to compete with the Slovenian. The England international, who netted 21 goals for Villa last term, could be signed for £40 million.
Still, a move entirely depends on what happens with Zirkzee. United are presently open to a season-long loan with an obligation to buy for £26-30m, which is more than justifiable for his potential.
Zirkzee could fare much better in a less intense and more tactical league in Serie A. The 25-year-old proved it with 19 goal contributions for Bologna in 2023/24 before his switch to United.
The Red Devils should stand firm on their demands. They should not entertain a direct loan deal. At worst, the buy obligation should be conditional based on Juventus’ Champions League qualification.