Manchester United Delays Decision on Zirkzee Amid Injury Crisis

Manchester United is set to defer any decision regarding Joshua Zirkzee’s future until later in the January transfer window, according to sources at ESPN. This delay comes as manager Ruben Amorim’s squad faces significant challenges due to injuries and player departures for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The team has been affected by the absence of key players such as Bryan Mbeumo, Amad, and Noussair Mazraoui, who are participating in AFCON, coupled with a growing injury list that includes Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo.

As a result, Amorim was compelled to give senior debuts to 18-year-olds Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey during the recent 2-1 loss to Aston Villa. Additionally, defender Lisandro Martínez was utilized as an emergency midfielder in the second half of the match.

Zirkzee, who has struggled to secure consistent playing time this season, is attracting interest from West Ham and Roma, among others. AC Milan previously considered the Dutch striker before shifting their focus to West Ham’s Niclas Füllkrug.

Sources indicate that Manchester United has yet to receive any formal inquiries regarding Zirkzee, who is valued at approximately £30.5 million ($47 million) by the club. The player is open to exploring any offers that may arise during the January window.

The 24-year-old is aware of the necessity for regular playing time to enhance his chances of being selected for the Netherlands squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup next summer. However, United is concerned about the current thinness of their squad and has conveyed to Zirkzee and his representatives that he remains a vital part of Amorim’s plans, even if he is not always a starter.

Meanwhile, Manchester United continues to pursue Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo. The winger has a £65 million release clause that is active for the first ten days of the January transfer window. He is also attracting interest from Manchester City, with clubs awaiting his indication of preference before making contact with Bournemouth. Semenyo’s release clause will become valid again in the summer at a reduced fee, but there is a growing sentiment that he is inclined to leave the Vitality Stadium in the upcoming month.