Joshua Zirkzee came close to finally leaving Manchester United in the summer. An exit never materialised but there are signs it could go through in January.
Sport Witness tracked how Fiorentina were keen on the Dutchman late in the window. A deal was being discussed with the Red Devils but the player ended up rejecting La Viola, who ended up signing Beto from Everton instead.
This came months after AS Roma wanted to sign the player in January. They sought an initial loan deal but at that point, it was Manchester United who caused problems over an exit.
Now, more clubs can come calling in January.
Milan want winter deal
Calciomercato IT remind everyone that Zirkzee was close to joining AC Milan before he joined Manchester United in 2024. A deal failed, as the Red Devils paid a higher commission to the player’s agent Kia Joorabchian.
The striker continues to have admirers at the Rossoneri, who want to make an attacking addition in January.
The outlet indicate the time to seriously consider an exit could be coming close for the Dutchman too. Milan are monitoring his situation with interest and want to execute an initial loan with an option to buy deal.
They are likely to make an offer in January, as Milan want an upgrade on young Francesco Camarda right now.
| Joshua Zirkzee — Manchester United statistics | 2024/25 | 2025/26 | 2026/27 so far |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 49 | 26 | 4 |
| Starts | 22 | 5 | 0 |
| Total minutes played | 2,256 | 644 | 70 |
| Goals | 7 | 2 | 0 |
| Assists | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| Goals + assists | 9 | 3 | 0 |
| Minutes per goal | 322 | 322 | — |
Player should push for transfer
Despite the disappointing times at Manchester United, Zirkzee has never actively pushed to leave. This held things back when Fiorentina came calling, even if the move could’ve been great for the Dutchman.
He is still only 25 and has to get his career back on track. His performances for the Dutch national team show that he should be starting regularly for another club.
Manchester United should also let him depart, as his exit can help bring in a replacement who suits Michael Carrick’s setup more.
