New Headline: Back on the Pitch: Zirkzee's Revival Brings Exciting Seasons Ahead
Joshua Zirkzee: United star eyes Juventus move as agent takes action Manchester United’s misfiring forward Joshua Zirkzee is pushing for an escape from Old Trafford this summer – with his agent already working round the clock to make it happen, according to a new report from Italy. The ‘False’ Nine Despite arriving in England fresh from a superb 2023/24 campaign for Bologna, Zirkzee has struggled acutely with the intense speed of Premier League football. The Dutchman ‘s performances propelled the Rossoblù to Champions League qualification for the first time in the club’s history, and earned him Serie A’s Young Player of the Year Award in the process.
A host of clubs across Europe were interested in the 6’4 centre-forward, whose first touch was as immaculate as his frame was imposing, including AC Milan, Arsenal and Juventus. However, it was the Red Devils who moved most decisively, striking a deal with Bologna worth £36. 5 million, slightly above Zirkzee’s £34.
4m release clause in order to secure more favourable payment terms. But the move has proven a poor one for both club and player, as he has not been able to translate his talents at the Theatre of Dreams, despite playing under three different coaches: Erik ten Hag, Ruben Amorim and, now, interim boss Michael Carrick. Zirkzee came close to leaving in January, with both AS Roma and Juventus making advances towards a deal for him to return to Italy.
However, the upheaval at United, through the coaching change and player absences, saw INEOS rule out any departures until the summer – and the 24-year-old remained in place. A Return to Italy Zirkzee’s resolve to leave at the end of the season has only been strengthened by his lack of opportunities under Carrick. He has played just 28 minutes across four cameo appearances since the 44-year-old Englishman took the helm in the wake of Amorim’s dismissal in January This has the forward feeling “feeling discouraged and saddened,” according to Italian outlet Tutto Sport.
Interest from Serie A’s elite has not dampened, however, with Roma and Juventus continuing to keep a close eye on the situation. But it is the latter who look ready to accelerate ahead of their rival after holding talks with Zirkzee’s representative this week. Tutto Sport reveals agent Kia Joorabchian has discussed the prospect of a summer deal for his client, with a price tag as low as £21m suggested to entice Juventus’ interest.