Joshua Zirkzee arrived at Manchester United with expectation, potential and the momentum of a successful spell in Italy, yet his Premier League story has stalled. The Mirror report that Roma have made the first formal move to bring in the Dutch forward, sensing opportunity as he fights for relevance under Ruben Amorim. For a player desperate to make the Netherlands squad for next years World Cup, the next two months could define his international future.
Zirkzee has yet to start a Premier League game this season and remains on the fringes of Amorims plans. There may be a short opening if Benjamin Sesko misses time, but the injury is not believed to be serious. The manager is wary of weakening his squad during a demanding run of fixtures, making any potential loan unpredictable.
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Romas interest is grounded in logic. Zirkzee thrived in Serie A with Bologna, and sources suggest he would be open to a return to Italy. According to the Mirror, Roma are willing to offer a loan deal with an option to buy, dependent on appearances and whether they secure European football.
Competition for Zirkzees signature is fierce. Everton and West Ham are actively seeking reinforcements up front and could make January offers. Both clubs view him as the type of forward who can drop deep, link play and offer intelligent movement, attributes they currently lack in depth.
However, the Mirror state that Zirkzees preference may lean towards Italy due to the likelihood of guaranteed minutes. With World Cup selection looming, he is anxious about securing enough game time to remain in consideration. He wants clarity and opportunity, one source suggested. Game time is the priority.
PSV Eindhoven, looking to strengthen ahead of a title push, are considering a formal loan proposal. Juventus have also been linked, awaiting clarity on Uniteds willingness to sanction a deal. For the Italian clubs, Zirkzee represents both value and upside, particularly if a loan includes a manageable purchase clause.
Everton, meanwhile, are also monitoring Ivan Toney, whose situation in Saudi Arabia may open the door to a Premier League return. This could influence the intensity of their pursuit of Zirkzee. West Ham, similarly, are assessing multiple forward options ahead of January.
For United, this is a balancing act. They want squad depth but also recognise the players need for minutes. For Zirkzee, January looks increasingly like a crossroads. Italy may offer comfort, continuity and opportunity, while the Premier League could provide profile but risk reduced playing time.
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His future now hinges on Uniteds assessment of their own depth and the players stance as the transfer window approaches.
Zirkzees situation is frustrating but familiar. Fans recognise his technical gifts and link-up play, yet they also see a player struggling to impose himself in a system that demands physical intensity and tactical clarity. Many supporters feel he has been unlucky with minutes, especially given the rotation up front, but there is also an acceptance that competition is fierce.
If Zirkzee leaves in January, fans will hope the loan is structured sensibly. United cannot afford to weaken their forward line without a replacement, particularly during a season shaped by injuries and integration. A move to Italy makes sense for the player, but there will be disappointment among supporters who hoped he would push on after arriving with such promise.
Some fans will argue he deserves a run in the team, especially during cup fixtures or periods of fixture congestion. Others feel he fits better in leagues where tempo and space differ. Most agree that his World Cup ambitions complicate matters, and if remaining at Old Trafford limits his chances, a loan may be mutually beneficial.
Ultimately, supporters want clarity. If Amorim is not planning to give Zirkzee meaningful minutes, United should act decisively and structure a move that protects the clubs long-term interests. Fans admire his potential, but they also recognise that the club cannot carry unsettled players during a demanding campaign.