Juventus remain interested in adding Joshua Zirkzee to their squad this summer despite completing the permanent signing of Randal Kolo Muani.
The Frenchman is viewed as the direct replacement for Dusan Vlahovic, meaning the Bianconeri are also looking to replace Lois Openda, who left the club during the current transfer window.
Juventus remain keen on Zirkzee
Zirkzee has found life in England more difficult than he did during his time with Bologna in Serie A, and a return to the Italian top flight could appeal to the Dutch forward. His technical qualities are considered well suited to Luciano Spalletti’s style of play, and the Juventus manager would welcome the opportunity to work with him.
Juventus have already made their interest known to Manchester United and the player’s representatives. However, the Bianconeri are not looking to complete a permanent transfer immediately and are instead exploring a different type of agreement.
According to Football Italia, Juventus want to follow the same approach that Barcelona used when they signed Marcus Rashford on loan from United last season. The Bianconeri believe a similar structure could allow them to strengthen their squad while reducing the financial risk of the deal.
Loan proposal takes shape
Despite Rashford impressing during his spell in Spain, Barcelona did not activate the buy clause in the agreement to keep him at the club permanently. Juventus are hoping to negotiate a comparable arrangement for Zirkzee.
Juve would prefer a loan agreement that includes an option to buy rather than an obligation to complete the transfer at the end of the season. Such a structure would give the club greater flexibility while allowing them to assess the striker over a longer period.
If United agree to those terms, Juventus are expected to push ahead with the move and attempt to bring Zirkzee back to Serie A. The negotiations could become one of the key transfer stories involving Juve before the transfer window closes.