Joshua Zirkzee is said to be edging closer to leaving Manchester United, with reports indicating that the out-of-form striker has reached an agreement to join Juventus.
The 23-year-old forward has faced a difficult period following his £36 million ($42 million) move from Bologna last summer. He scored only four goals in 27 matches for Manchester United. His challenges settling in were worsened by his failure to secure a regular place in Ruben Amorim’s starting lineup.
According to Gazzetta, a return to Serie A is looking likely for Zirkzee, who enjoyed a successful spell at Bologna last season under coach Thiago Motta. Juventus is reportedly keen to bring the striker back to work with Motta again, the coach who helped him shine during his breakout year in Italy.
With Juventus striker Arek Milik struggling with injuries and Dusan Vlahovic shouldering the attacking responsibilities, Zirkzee’s addition would offer crucial depth and a player well-suited to Motta’s tactical approach. Juventus’ sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli has been in talks with Zirkzee’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, who was also involved in the transfer of Douglas Luiz to Juventus earlier this year. While a preliminary agreement between Zirkzee’s camp and Juventus seems to be in place, the deal has yet to be finalized.
Following his latest substitution, where the Dutch striker was seen leaving the pitch in tears, Zirkzee is reportedly eager to depart Old Trafford just months after his arrival. However, the final decision may lie with new Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, who has already left Marcus Rashford out of his squad in recent weeks. Zirkzee’s early exit in the first half of the match against Newcastle has only heightened the uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
Financial limitations have left Manchester United with little flexibility, making player sales crucial to generating the funds necessary for potential signings.
Zirkzee’s departure could help alleviate some of this pressure, but the club must navigate the challenge of finding a buyer willing to meet their asking price. Juventus has been hesitant to commit to a permanent transfer, leaving the situation uncertain, as they are instead seeking to secure Zirkzee on a loan deal until the end of the season.
