Man United delay decision on Joshua Zirkzee's future in January transfer

Zirkzee joined United from Bologna in the summer of 2024 in a £36 million deal. However, after two seasons at Old Trafford, he has managed just seven goals in 57 appearances across all competitions. This season has been even more difficult, with the Dutch forward making only 11 appearances, totalling 372 minutes and scoring just once.

The striker has been linked with a potential exit in the January transfer window, with interest reportedly coming from Serie A, where he previously impressed at Bologna. During his time in Italy, Zirkzee scored 13 goals in 53 appearances and was regarded as one of the league’s promising young forwards.

However, according to ESPN, Manchester United have currently turned down approaches for the player. Club executives are said to be waiting until the final days of the transfer window before making a decision on Zirkzee’s future. The report also claims that West Ham and AS Roma are monitoring the situation closely, with West Ham particularly keen after selling Niclas Füllkrug to AC Milan.

United are also dealing with several absences. Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui are away on AFCON duty, while captain Bruno Fernandes is sidelined with injury and has no clear return date. With Benjamin Šeško still struggling to adapt, Ruben Amorim has tried to use Zirkzee as a central forward, but without much success.

As January approaches, United may look to strengthen their attacking options. The club have recently shown interest in Bournemouth winger Antonie Semenyo, who has a £65 million release clause, although Manchester City are currently considered the favourites for his signature.

The upcoming fixtures could be crucial for Zirkzee if he wants to remain at Old Trafford. After the match against Newcastle on 27 December, United face Wolves (31 December), Leeds (4 January) and Burnley (8 January), a run seen as an opportunity for the striker to prove his value.

With the World Cup drawing closer, Zirkzee may also feel pressure to secure more playing time. He made his Netherlands debut at Euro 2024 but was left out of the squad for the most recent World Cup qualifiers in November.