Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has given his approval to signing Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee this summer, according to Corriere dello Sport (page 11).
The Bianconeri are on the cusp of re-signing Paris Saint-Germain ace Randal Kolo Muani, but the club are open to landing another marquee centre-forward before the deadline.
Zirkzee has emerged as a prime target in the last few days, and Spalletti has already given his approval to a potential move, given the Dutchman’s playing style and versatility.
Juventus technical director Frederic Massara had a full agreement with the player’s entourage when he was Roma’s sporting director last winter, but United decided against a deal.
However, the striker looks more likely to depart this time around, and Massara could be key. Zirkzee is ‘very keen’ on returning to Serie A, having previously missed out with Roma.
Juventus plan to propose a season-long loan with a buy option.
United should hold out for a conditional buy clause at least
The 25-year-old has been a fringe player for the Red Devils since he arrived from Bologna two years ago. He has bagged just five goals from 56 Premier League appearances.
In comparison, Benjamin Sesko scored 11 times in the English top-flight during his debut season despite a rocky start. The Slovenian proved his credentials in the back end of the campaign.
Sesko scored plenty of match-defining goals off the bench. He has been nursing a shin injury since May, but should be fit in time for the league opener against Hull City on August 22.
United would ideally want a better striker to compete with Sesko, but that would largely depend on Zirkzee heading out. Juventus seem the club with the highest degree of interest.
The Red Devils purchased him for £36 million from Bologna but may have to cut their losses. It has been reported that they could accept a loan deal with an obligation to buy for £26-30m.
Juventus are presently looking for a loan with a buy clause. United should not entertain such a proposal and should seek at least a conditional obligation to purchase next summer.
United previously agreed to a similar deal with Napoli for Rasmus Hojlund. The Dane permanently joined the Naples outfit after they qualified for the 2026/27 Champions League.
Stats from Transfermarkt