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Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee is ready to swap Old Trafford for the Stadio Olimpico in January, but his exit could still hinge on Ruben Amorim’s transfer plans.
Zirkzee Agrees to Roma Move, Eyes Fresh Start in Serie A
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Zirkzee has agreed to join AS Roma after positive talks with sporting director Ricky Massara and manager Gian Piero Gasperini. The 24-year-old is expected to arrive on an initial six-month loan, with an obligation to buy for around £35 million in the summer—a figure close to the £36.5m United paid for him in 2024.
Gasperini has reportedly assured Zirkzee that he fits his attacking system, likely lining up in one of the three forward roles in Roma’s 3-4-2-1 setup. The Italian coach, known for his fluid attacking shapes from his Atalanta days, believes the Dutchman can rediscover his form in the capital.
Zirkzee managed just seven goals in 49 appearances last season and has struggled for minutes since Amorim took over from Erik ten Hag in November. With a World Cup spot on the line, the forward is pushing for regular football.
Amorim Puts the Brakes on January Exits
While the deal appears to be progressing, Amorim is making it clear he won’t sanction departures without adequate replacements lined up.
“We are short. Even with a full squad, we’re short,” he told reporters. “It’s going to be hard for someone to leave the club if we don’t get a substitution.”
With AFCON absences thinning United’s squad—Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo among those away—Zirkzee’s departure might not be finalised until their return in mid-January.
Mainoo Also Eyes Serie A, But Amorim Still Believes
Zirkzee might not be the only one heading for Italy. Young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly interested in a move to Napoli, where ex-United man Scott McTominay is enjoying a resurgence. Napoli are said to be leading the race, but United aren’t keen on short-term fixes and may hold off until summer to reinforce the midfield.
Amorim, though, hasn’t given up on Mainoo.
“He’s going to be the future of Manchester United,” Amorim said. “He just needs to wait for his chance.”
United Weighing Options in Midfield
One name on the club’s radar is Everton’s James Garner, a former United academy product. With just six months left on his current contract, he’s seen as a low-cost option to add depth while the club pursues bigger summer targets—Newcastle’s Elliot Anderson chief among them.
What This Means for United Fans
Zirkzee’s exit, if it goes through, closes the door on what was supposed to be a key signing of the club’s rebuild. Instead, it marks another forward whose time at Old Trafford fizzled out. For fans, the bigger concern is whether United will do enough in January to patch the gaps or keep muddling through until summer. With Amorim clearly cautious about weakening the squad further, all eyes are on the board to back him—or risk another limp finish to the season.
