Exit-linked Man United star unlikely to leave Old Trafford on deadline day | OneFootball

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Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford has been the subject of intense speculation in recent days. The Dutch striker has been a peripheral figure under Michael Carrick, managing just one start since the Englishman’s arrival in January this year.

Zirkzee is coming off a decent pre-season, during which he caught the eye, especially against Leeds United. The 25 year old was expected to lead the line at the beginning of the 2026/27 season, particularly since Benjamin Sesko had played no part in pre-season.

The Slovenian picked up an ankle injury and missed the final weeks of the last campaign. The situation provided Zirkzee with the perfect opportunity to stake a claim in Carrick’s starting XI, but he is yet to kick a ball this campaign.

The English manager has preferred to deploy Matheus Cunha in the No. 9 role instead, marking another low point in the Dutchman’s stint at Old Trafford so far. Sesko has come off the bench in both games, but Zirkzee has been an unused substitute.

Zirkzee’s stint with United

Zirkzee arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2024 to strengthen the forward line, which already included Rasmus Hojlund. Unfortunately, neither the Dutchman nor the Dane managed to impress that campaign, prompting United to turn to Sesko last summer.

Hojlund, meanwhile, left for Napoli, but Zirkzee’s struggles at the Theatre of Dreams failed to subside. The Dutchman finished last season with two goals and one assist in 26 games.

Joshua Zirkzee Stats: 2025/26 Season

With United expected to sign a new No. 9 this summer, Zirkzee appeared destined to move on. Juventus have been tipped as a possible destination, but a move has failed to materialise so far. An update on the situation has now emerged.

A move unlikely on deadline day

According to Simon Stone, Zirkzee is unlikely to secure a move away from United on transfer deadline day. Sharing the update on X, the BBC journalist wrote: “Feeling currently is Joshua Zirkzee more likely to stay @ManUtd.”

“Obviously situation could change and there are plenty of places where the transfer window stays open beyond tonight. Man Utd can’t sign anyone after tonight though.”

Journalist Samuel Luckhurst, meanwhile, has reported that United are comfortable with the prospect of Zirkzee staying at Old Trafford this season. He wrote on X: “#mufc comfortable with possibility of Zirkzee staying, given squad player function and popularity among teammates.”

“Has nine goals in 75 games and only started once under Carrick. Inability to sell/loan Rashford or Zirkzee has effectively blocked a new forward coming in.”

Final Thoughts

United cannot afford to offload Zirkzee in the final hours and end the summer short of options up front. While the Dutchman has not lived up to expectations at Old Trafford, he can still be a useful squad option.

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The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment Overall credibility: 8/10 Why?

✅ Reported by a reputed source. ✅ United yet to sign a replacement. ⚠️ No official confirmation from club.