Manchester United’s attacking overhaul in the summer hasn’t quite yielded the expected results — and now, one forward is reportedly ready to call it quits. Joshua Zirkzee is said to be frustrated with his lack of minutes under Ruben Amorim and could push for a move in January, especially with interest from Italy growing and the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.
Zirkzee’s Role Shrinks After Summer Spending Spree
After a disappointing season in front of goal, Manchester United invested heavily in offensive reinforcements, spending close to £200 million to bring in Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha. This influx saw several high-profile exits, including Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony — all deemed surplus to requirements by head coach Ruben Amorim.
Despite the reshuffle, the Red Devils continue to misfire in the final third. Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system has yet to unlock the team’s full attacking potential, and fringe players like Zirkzee have been left out in the cold.
Frustration Grows as Minutes Dwindle
Zirkzee, who enjoyed a breakout spell at Bologna prior to joining United, has found himself on the periphery. According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, the Dutch forward is “unhappy” with his situation, having made just three Premier League appearances this season — only one of them as a starter — and totaling just 82 minutes of play.
“He might consider a move away if his role doesn’t improve, particularly with the World Cup on the horizon,” O’Rourke explained. “He’s not content with being a bit-part player, and Serie A clubs like Juventus and Como are monitoring his availability.”
Serie A Interest and January Exit Looms
Zirkzee’s strong performances in Italy before joining United have kept him on the radar of Serie A sides, and with the winter transfer window approaching, a return could be on the cards.
CaughtOffside reports that United’s decision-makers may be open to letting Zirkzee go for the right price — believed to be in the region of €35–40 million — as part of a strategic “one-in-one-out” plan backed by the INEOS-led football department.
Man United’s Transfer Strategy Under INEOS
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group now overseeing football operations, United are expected to be more calculated in their transfer dealings. That includes offloading underperforming or unhappy players to make room — and financial space — for new signings.
The idea of selling Zirkzee to fund a fresh addition fits that blueprint. Though the summer investment was significant, United’s ongoing goal-scoring issues suggest another attacking reshuffle could be necessary come January.
Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Manchester United is in serious doubt as he struggles for game time under Ruben Amorim. With the World Cup approaching and Serie A suitors circling, a winter exit could benefit both player and club — especially if INEOS gets its way with a smart one-in-one-out deal.
