Roma Circle Zirkzee as United Navigate Managerial Uncertainty

Joshua Zirkzee finds himself back in Roma's sights, with the Italian club maintaining their interest in the Manchester United forward despite the Old Trafford chaos of recent weeks.

The 24-year-old Dutch striker, who arrived at United in 2024, has managed just nine goals across 64 appearances—hardly the return that would cement a long-term future. Fabrizio Romano reports that Roma are actively pursuing the player, with fresh conversations ongoing between the clubs.

"Roma are still pushing for Joshua Zirkzee," Romano confirmed to GiveMeSport. "They are still there. They are still calling. So let's see what happens with the exits. But at the moment for Man United, still nothing imminent."

The path from Old Trafford to Serie A has become well-worn in recent seasons, with Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund both making the switch to Napoli. The prospect of Zirkzee following suit remains live, though complicated.

Roma's preferred arrangement involves a loan deal with an obligation to purchase, but United will only sanction such an exit if they can secure a replacement. The club has already begun scouting the market after failing to land Antoine Semenyo, with an attacking reinforcement the priority should Zirkzee depart.

The timing remains tricky. With United's managerial situation in flux following Ruben Amorim's sacking, any incoming boss will understandably want input on squad decisions. There were pre-departure reports of Zirkzee growing restless under Amorim's stewardship, though a January move feels unlikely until the club settles its leadership question.

United's striking depth is thin on the ground. Benjamin Sesko represents their main experienced option, while Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo can operate centrally if required. Youngsters Chido Obi and Shea Lacey, both 18, are some way from providing meaningful competition.