Zirkzee’s Potential Departure from Manchester United Amidst January Transfer Speculation

Joshua Zirkzee, who transferred to Manchester United from Bologna in the summer of 2024, has made only 11 appearances for the club across all competitions. Of these, he has started in just four matches, accumulating a total of 372 minutes on the pitch, during which he scored once—an equalizer in a 2-1 victory against Crystal Palace in early December.

Since the summer, there has been increasing speculation regarding Zirkzee’s potential departure from United, particularly concerning a return to Serie A, where he previously excelled with Bologna. As reported by ESPN earlier this week, United is likely to wait until the later stages of the January transfer window to decide on the Netherlands international’s exit. The Red Devils are already facing challenges due to the absence of attackers Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, who are participating in the Africa Cup of Nations, while captain Bruno Fernandes is expected to be sidelined for approximately a month due to an injury sustained against Aston Villa last weekend.

Despite Manchester United’s firm position on his transfer, Zirkzee has reportedly expressed interest in joining AS Roma, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport. The 24-year-old has reportedly had positive discussions with Roma’s sporting director Ricky Massara and manager Gian Piero Gasperini, leading to a verbal agreement to join the Italian club.

Gasperini has assured Zirkzee that he would be a perfect fit for the team’s 3-4-2-1 system, which has further influenced the Dutchman’s desire for regular playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup. However, Zirkzee’s departure would only be considered once key players like Amad and Bryan Mbeumo return from their international commitments.

Manager Amorim has emphasized that a transfer would only be permitted if suitable replacements can be secured. He stated, “It’s going to be hard for someone to leave the club if we don’t get a substitution. We are short on depth; even with a complete squad, we have challenges. We are a club with significant responsibilities, and we must win every game without excuses.”

Amorim indicated earlier this month that United is open to bolstering their squad in January, provided the “perfect” long-term players become available. He cautioned against making hasty purchases during the winter transfer window, citing past mistakes as reasons for careful planning. “We can improve, but we need to bring in players that align with our vision. If there is uncertainty, it might be better to work with our existing squad. That’s my perspective, and I believe the board shares this view.”

In a similar vein, young English midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has also faced challenges securing playing time this season and is contemplating a move away from Old Trafford. Regarding Mainoo’s future, Amorim remarked, “Kobbie Mainoo will have opportunities—he has time on his side. He has played in various positions and has the potential to contribute significantly. He just needs to be patient, as everything can change rapidly in football.”

The Red Devils are set to conclude 2025 with a Premier League match against relegation-threatened Wolverhampton Wanderers on January 30.