Everton eyeing shock January move to sign Man United forward – Report | OneFootball

Everton Weighing Up Bold January Swoop For Joshua Zirkzee

Everton’s recruitment drive under David Moyes could be set for another intriguing twist. According to a report from Give Me Sport, journalist Dean Jones has revealed that Everton are eyeing a surprise move for out-of-favour Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee, who is believed to be considering his future at Old Trafford.

Zirkzee Open To Premier League Stay

Ruben Amorim’s arrival at Manchester United was supposed to offer Zirkzee fresh opportunity. Instead he has played just 82 minutes across four appearances, with zero starts and no goal contributions. With new forward additions including Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, competition has intensified further. As Dean Jones claims, Zirkzee was expected to leave Man United during the summer, alongside Rasmus Hojlund who joined Napoli on loan, yet the Dutchman remained.

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Jones reports that Como, Everton and West Ham United are all monitoring his situation, and crucially Zirkzee has not ruled out staying in England. At just 24 years old, the former Bologna forward still believes he can prove his worth at Premier League level. As one source put it, “He believes he has what it takes to succeed in the Premier League.”

Everton’s January Plans Taking Shape

Everton spent over £110m on new arrivals in the summer, securing the likes of Thierno Barry, Jack Grealish, Tyler Dibling and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Those investments helped lift the Toffees to 10th in the Premier League, ending Crystal Palace’s 18-game unbeaten run with a 2-1 victory at Selhurst Park.

Yet an additional forward could be key to maintaining their upward momentum. With Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s fitness historically uncertain, Moyes will be well aware that additional firepower may decide Everton’s fate come May. Zirkzee offers versatility, Premier League experience and – importantly – a point to prove.

Permanent Or Loan Deal Possible

The report indicates that Zirkzee is open to both permanent and temporary moves. That flexibility could appeal greatly to Everton’s recruitment team, who have already shown a willingness to build balanced, financially structured deals.

Even more telling is the belief that he was “attracting interest again” before the window closed, suggesting talks could accelerate quickly once January opens. Should Everton be serious contenders, they will need to move swiftly. Serie A competition, particularly from Como, should not be underestimated.

Statistical Snapshot

Zirkzee’s numbers at United were modest but not without potential. He scored seven goals and provided three assists in 49 appearances last term, with five goal contributions coming in the Premier League. He missed the final month due to a thigh injury and has not started a game since a 4-1 defeat at Newcastle on 13 April.

For a club rebuilding around ambition and pragmatism, that profile is not a deterrent – it is an opportunity.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

If this comes off, Evertonians will be split right down the middle. On one hand, Joshua Zirkzee is clearly talented, technically smooth, physically capable and tactically adaptable. At 24, he is entering his prime and has already operated at Manchester United under intense scrutiny. The hunger to prove Amorim wrong could make him a clever acquisition.

However, there will be valid reservations. Many supporters still carry scars from past January gambles. Some will say Everton should be prioritising consistency rather than more reclamation projects. The fact he has barely kicked a ball this season will not help his case.

That said, David Moyes has made a habit of reviving careers. Players who looked finished elsewhere have often flourished under his structure. If the deal is performance-based, perhaps a loan with option to buy, then it becomes low-risk and high-upside.

Ruben Amorim clearly has different plans for United’s attack. If Zirkzee wants regular football and Everton can offer a coherent plan rather than just another shirt and a handshake, then this could be one of those transfers that looks obvious in hindsight. Some fans will expect a more prolific signing, but others will see this as the type of smart market move needed to close the gap on Europe.