Juventus renew interest in Zirkzee
Juventus have reportedly intensified their pursuit of Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee, making contact with the Dutch forward’s representatives. The Serie A club is exploring alternative attacking options as negotiations for other targets, such as Randal Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain, have encountered difficulties. Zirkzee has emerged as a significant candidate for the Turin-based team.
Reports from Italy suggest that Juventus remain in discussions with Paris Saint-Germain regarding Kolo Muani, but an agreement has not yet been reached. This situation has led Juventus to reopen talks concerning Zirkzee. Initial contact has reportedly been established with the player’s camp. The striker’s estimated annual salary is not anticipated to be a major hurdle in potential negotiations.
This is not the first time Juventus has shown interest in Zirkzee. The club reportedly attempted to sign him in the summer of 2024 and again during the January transfer window earlier this year, though neither approach progressed. Ricky Massara, the new Juventus sporting director, is believed to be a key figure in this renewed interest, having previously admired Zirkzee and attempted to sign him for Roma.
Manchester United’s stance on transfer
Manchester United are understood to value Zirkzee at between €35 million and €40 million. The Premier League club may now be more receptive to flexible deal structures, a shift from their previous insistence on a permanent transfer. This change in stance could enhance Juventus’ prospects of securing an agreement before the new Serie A season commences.
During the January transfer window, Manchester United rejected loan proposals for Zirkzee, preferring either a permanent sale or a loan with a mandatory purchase clause. Current reports indicate that the club might be open to more creative arrangements, provided they can ultimately secure a permanent transfer that aligns with their valuation.
Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford has been uncertain, particularly after a challenging 2025/26 campaign where he struggled to secure a regular starting position. He made 24 Premier League appearances but accumulated limited minutes, as competition for attacking roles intensified within the squad. This lack of consistent playing time also impacted his international prospects, leading to his exclusion from the Netherlands national team selection.
His time at Manchester United has not mirrored his performances with Bologna during the 2023/24 season, where he scored 12 goals and provided 7 assists in 37 appearances. These performances previously garnered attention from several prominent European clubs and led to call-ups for the Netherlands national team. Zirkzee is reportedly seeking more regular first-team opportunities, which fuels speculation about a potential return to Italy.
What comes next
Juventus is expected to continue discussions for both Kolo Muani and Zirkzee in the coming weeks as they aim to finalize their attacking plans. Manchester United will also evaluate offers as they work to reshape their squad ahead of the new season. The potential transfer of Zirkzee could become a significant story in the summer transfer window if negotiations progress.
The departure of Dusan Vlahovic has prompted Juventus to seek a replacement, with Zirkzee being one of the names on their shortlist. While Kolo Muani is reportedly considered the primary target, the Turin club is prepared to act on Zirkzee if an agreement with Paris Saint-Germain proves unattainable. The situation remains fluid as both clubs assess their options for the upcoming season.
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Source: footballplace.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.”
