MANCHESTER UNITED IN ADVANCED TALKS TO LOAN ZIRKZEE TO JUVENTUS

Manchester United are in advanced talks with Juventus over a loan deal for striker Joshua Zirkzee, according to reports. The arrangement would include a £30 million option to buy for the Italian club. Zirkzee's representatives have responded positively to Juventus's approach, and the 25-year-old is understood to be open to the move. Manchester United are said to be receptive to his departure this summer, though Zirkzee is also keen to secure a place in manager Michael Carrick's plans.

Zirkzee joined Manchester United from Bologna in 2024 for £36.5 million but has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter. One report stated he scored nine times in 75 appearances for the club; another put his tally at five goals in 56 Premier League outings. He started just five Premier League matches during the 2025/26 season. The Netherlands international sought to leave in January but was informed by United that a departure would not be feasible at that time. Juventus turned their attention to Zirkzee after ending their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain's Randal Kolo Muani following drawn-out talks with the European champions.

One account suggested Roma have also harboured a long-standing interest in Zirkzee, with the club reportedly the frontrunners for his signature after moving considerably quicker in negotiations. However, both reports identified Juventus as the most serious suitors and the club in advanced talks with United. Zirkzee is understood to believe that European football at United in 2026/27 under Carrick will provide him with greater opportunities to play regularly.