Fabio Capello has tipped Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee to leave Old Trafford this summer and return to Serie A with AC Milan. The former England manager believes the Dutch forward would be a 'better fit' for the Italian giants.
Zirkzee's Struggles at Manchester United
Zirkzee has failed to make a significant impact at United since his arrival from Bologna for £36.5 million two summers ago. The 24-year-old has started only four Premier League matches this season and has scored a meager five goals in 52 league appearances across both campaigns. His opportunities have been further limited by the arrivals of Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo last summer, pushing him down the pecking order.
With regular first-team football becoming elusive, Zirkzee is widely expected to depart this summer. He was injured when Michael Carrick was installed as interim head coach and has played just 39 minutes under the Englishman.
Capello's Endorsement for AC Milan
Speaking to Gazzetta, Capello urged Milan to make a move for Zirkzee as a potential replacement for Rafael Leao. 'If I were Milan, I'd make the swap immediately,' Capello said. 'I'd see the Dutchman as a much better fit in Max's 3-5-2. Zirkzee is someone who gets the team playing and is very good at communicating with his teammates.'
Capello also highlighted a potential partnership with Christian Pulisic. 'For me, the Zirkzee-Pulisic partnership would be brilliant. If Sorloth and either Gimenez or Nkunku were alternatives, one could say the attack is in good shape.'
Manchester United's Summer Rebuild
Zirkzee is expected to be one of several United players made available for transfer this summer as the club plots its latest rebuild. Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund could see their loan moves to Barcelona and Napoli made permanent. Andre Onana, who has also been out on loan, is unlikely to reclaim his place in goal due to the form of Senne Lammens and could be sold. Additionally, the club will reportedly listen to offers for Manuel Ugarte, whose only start under Carrick came in a 2-1 defeat to Leeds United.
