Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly open to a transfer to Juventus, which could facilitate new attacking signings for the English club. Zirkzee, who featured in United’s opening pre-season game against Wrexham, has played a limited number of competitive minutes under Michael Carrick.
Several clubs in Serie A are reportedly interested in signing Zirkzee, who was acquired by United from Italy. Juventus is said to be leading the interest, despite their primary focus being Randal Kolo Muani. However, discussions between Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain regarding Kolo Muani have reportedly stalled, leading Juventus to contact Zirkzee to gauge his interest.
According to one report, Zirkzee has given an initial ‘yes’ to the idea of joining Juventus and is reportedly keen on returning to Italy. This report suggests that a loan move is preferred by Luciano Spalletti‘s side, with another attempt expected for Kolo Muani.
Transfer Strategy and Midfield Targets
United would reportedly prefer a permanent departure for Zirkzee to reinvest the funds into the squad, potentially for a replacement striker. A deal including an obligation to buy could be a possibility.
Zirkzee had previously sought to leave in January but was denied the opportunity. Had that transfer been approved, Benjamin Sesko would have been the only recognised fit centre-forward, though he is currently recovering from a shin injury.
While midfield remains a key area of focus for United, the club is also exploring options in the striker market. The likely outcome is an experienced attacker who is familiar with the Premier League, rather than a high-profile signing.
New arrivals at the club already include Karl Darlow, Youri Tielemans, and Andrey Santos. A third midfield signing is also anticipated.
AS Roma‘s Manu Kone and Alex Scott of Bournemouth are reportedly high on United’s shortlist for midfield reinforcements. Both players are attracting interest from other clubs, with Chelsea reportedly having a significant offer for Scott declined.
Scott, a former England Under 21s player, has been linked with a move to Old Trafford to strengthen the midfield. Despite being under contract with Bournemouth until 2028, his representatives have reportedly declined a new contract proposal.
Potential Departures and Future Plans
A new left-winger is also being considered, with Crysencio Summerville and Iliman Ndiaye linked. However, Summerville appears set to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, following an accepted bid from West Ham.
The future of Marcus Rashford could influence any potential additions to the frontline. The sale of Zirkzee could contribute to securing a forward capable of playing as a striker.
Zirkzee’s reputation in Italy reportedly remains strong, despite scoring five goals in 56 Premier League appearances since his arrival at Old Trafford from Bologna.
Juventus’s CEO Giovanni Carnevali and sporting director Marco Ottolini are reportedly looking to replace Dusan Vlahovic, who recently left the club. Zirkzee is understood to have received numerous communications from Juventus as they explored his availability.
United’s interest in Scott comes as Carrick is reportedly seeking a third midfield addition. Scott appears to be a strong option alongside Manu Kone. Another midfielder, Tyler Adams, has also been associated with a transfer to Old Trafford.
Arsenal has also shown interest in Scott, but their main midfield target is reportedly Newcastle United‘s captain Bruno Guimaraes.
The club continues its pre-season preparations with an upcoming match against Rosenborg.
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Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”
