Joshua Zirkzee: Man United star disagrees with INEOS over future
Joshua Zirkzee: Man United star disagrees with INEOS over future Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee is set to clash with the club’s hierarchy over his long-term future at Old Trafford, according to a new report. Failing to Adapt Zirkzee has failed to impress since arriving from Serie A side Bologna for £36. 5 million two years ago, struggling to establish himself under three successive head coaches: Erik ten Hag, Ruben Amorim and interim boss Michael Carrick.
A dismal record of nine goals and four assists in 79 appearances in a red shirt tells its own story, but the Netherlands international’s all-round play has also left a lot to be desired. A return to Italy was a real possibility in January, with both AS Roma and Juventus making advances to strike a deal. However, United ruled out any first-team exits to maintain a strong squad in the push for Champions League qualification.
Sunday’s pulsating 3-2 victory over Liverpool achieved this goal — likely securing Carrick the full-time job — and also helped accelerate the club’s plans in the summer window. United are on the lookout for a more experienced No. 9 to lighten the load on Benjamin Sesko.
However, this will require Zirkzee to be sold to fund a more capable replacement, with a minimum fee of around £22 million needed to avoid a PSR hit. Zirkzee wants to stay Attacking Football claims United are now “pushing hard” to seal a departure, with Napoli said to be interested in a loan deal. This is not a plan matched by the player, however.
The report states Zirkzee is “determined to stay and fight for his place” as he looks to finally carve out a home for himself in M16. Talks are understood to be scheduled this month, during which the hierarchy will inform the Dutchman of their intention to sell him. This puts the two parties on a collision course at the end of the season, as INEOS will be unable to fund the recruitment of a new striker without the pre-existing one first leaving.