Manchester United have begun talks to offload Joshua Zirkzee, with Juventus keen to sign the out-of-favour forward. The Netherlands international joined the Red Devils two years ago from Bologna in a £36.5 million deal.
Zirkzee began his Old Trafford career in encouraging fashion, scoring the winning goal on his debut against Wolves, but he has largely flattered to deceive ever since under a succession of managers. Erik ten Hag struggled to get the best out of his compatriot, while Ruben Amorim was unable to find a regular position for the versatile forward in what became his infamous 3-4-3 formation.
Zirkzee's Recent Form and Carrick's Decision
Zirkzee did begin to feature more frequently and show flashes of his potential under Michael Carrick, but the newly appointed permanent United boss is, according to The Sun, minded to sell the 25-year-old. Juventus have emerged as the frontrunners, with the Serie A giants looking for an alternative after seeing their move for Randal Kolo Muani break down.
The France international spent last season on loan at Tottenham from Paris Saint-Germain but has been deemed surplus to requirements by Luis Enrique. Negotiations have dragged, however, and with Juventus in dire need of a new centre forward they have turned their attentions to Zirkzee.
Juventus Interest and Potential Deal
Zirkzee's representatives have given a positive response to the approach from Juventus. United are willing to accept a loan move and £30 million buy option despite spending around £36.5 million to sign him in 2024. Were Zirkzee to depart, Benjamin Sesko would represent the only senior striker available to Carrick ahead of the new season.
The Slovenian has been struggling with a shin injury and that meant he was absent for pre-season games against Wrexham and Rosenborg as he continues to follow a rehabilitation programme. Sesko was already nursing a shin injury that he aggravated in the win over Liverpool in early May.
Pre-Season Plans and Striker Concerns
Sesko is likely to start against PSG in Gothenburg on August 8 before the entire United squad fly from Sweden to Dublin for a six-day training camp. The Red Devils play Leeds at Croke Park on August 12. With Zirkzee's potential departure, United face a shortage of senior strikers, putting pressure on Carrick to secure a replacement before the transfer window closes.
