Uncertainty Surrounds Zirkzee’s Future Following Amorim’s Departure

The sacking of Amorim has sent shockwaves through the January transfer market, putting several potential deals involving Manchester United players in jeopardy. One of the most notable situations is that of Dutch striker Zirkzee, who has struggled to find his footing at Old Trafford.

Roma had marked the 24-year-old as their primary target for the winter transfer window. The Italian club views him as the ideal solution to their ongoing goalscoring issues, especially given his impressive track record in Serie A during his tenure with Bologna. Although negotiations had begun to take shape, the departure of the Portuguese manager has necessitated a reassessment of the situation.

In an interview with Sky Sports in Italy, Roma’s sporting director acknowledged that the landscape of any potential transfer has shifted significantly overnight. “He is a Manchester United centre-forward liked by many clubs, not just us,” Massara stated, confirming that Roma is not the sole contender interested in Zirkzee.

However, Massara tempered expectations regarding the impact of the managerial change. A new coach often provides a fresh opportunity for fringe players, and Manchester United might be hesitant to approve any departures until the new permanent manager evaluates the squad.

“Naturally, the situation is different after this change of management; there are no contacts in progress, but I wouldn’t focus on individual names,” Massara added.

This acknowledgment from Massara is likely a disappointment for Roma supporters, who have witnessed their team struggle to convert chances into goals this season. The sporting director candidly addressed the club’s pressing need in the market, emphasizing a disconnect between opportunities created and actual goals scored.

“We know this window is an opportunity to reinforce the squad in an area where we have struggled to convert chances into goals, so we will try to use it,” he explained.

Zirkzee was seen as an ideal candidate to address this deficiency. His capacity to drop deep, link play, and involve teammates made him a standout performer in Italy previously. Manchester United reportedly values him at approximately £30 million ($47 million), a figure that reflects his talent despite the challenges he has faced in Manchester. Should United decide against a sale, Roma may have to explore alternative options.

For Zirkzee, Amorim’s departure could signify a turning point in his United career. Under the former Sporting CP boss, the striker struggled to secure consistent playing time, often remaining on the periphery of the starting lineup. Sources suggest that prior to Monday’s dismissal, Zirkzee was open to considering offers in January to attain regular match action.

However, with Amorim’s 14-month tenure now concluded, interim manager Darren Fletcher has stepped in. The hierarchy at Old Trafford is reportedly concerned that the squad is already too thin to permit senior players to leave mid-season. As the team strives to salvage their Premier League campaign, the idea of weakening their attacking options by selling Zirkzee without a suitable replacement is viewed as too risky.

This “clean slate” policy is likely to extend beyond Zirkzee. Another player, Kobbie Mainoo, whose influence diminished during the latter stages of the Amorim era, is also anticipated to be retained. The club aims to ensure that whoever assumes the managerial role permanently has a full roster to work with.

The decision to potentially block Zirkzee’s exit stems from a pragmatic evaluation of the squad’s depth. Manchester United is still competing on multiple fronts, and an injury crisis could quickly derail their season if they allow recognized first-team players to depart.

While both Roma and West Ham maintain interest in Zirkzee, Massara’s comment regarding “no contacts in progress” indicates that negotiations have stalled for the moment. Zirkzee may now be given an opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities in the upcoming fixtures under Fletcher. If he can regain the form that led to his initial signing by United, speculation regarding a return to Italy may dissipate entirely. Conversely, should he remain sidelined under the new regime, discussions about a potential transfer could reignite as the window nears its close.