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Zirkzee Faces Uncertain Man Utd Future Amid Striker Market Moves

United’s Summer Strategy Taking Shape

Manchester United’s striker situation has been a constant headline generator, and this latest development is no exception. After securing Benjamin Sesko in a £73.7m transfer, United have been keen to avoid complacency in attack. TEAMtalk report that the club is targeting another forward to compete with Sesko, which could see Zirkzee moved on at the end of the season.

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Zirkzee’s spell at Old Trafford has been defined by flashes of brilliance but also questions over consistency. His performances with Bologna before joining United earned him a reputation as a technically gifted forward, and that Serie A admiration has not faded. Juventus and other Italian clubs are reportedly monitoring his situation closely, with TEAMtalk hinting that he could be allowed to depart if the right offer arrives.

Vlahovic Free Transfer Adds Pressure

The market context makes this story even more intriguing. Fabrizio Romano revealed that Manchester United were offered the chance to sign Dusan Vlahovic last summer, but the club kept focus on Sesko. With Vlahovic set to be available on a free transfer next year, United are among three major clubs, alongside Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, who are considering a move.

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Per Gazzetta dello Sport, the financial details are already known, with a €10m signing-on fee and a €10m annual salary being requested by the Serbian’s camp. While those numbers are substantial, United’s advantage lies in Vlahovic’s desire to play in the Premier League.

Zirkzee’s Role at Risk

United’s policy has been clear, one striker in, one striker out. Rasmus Hojlund’s loan to Napoli includes a conditional obligation to buy, and should that clause be activated, Zirkzee is the most likely name to follow him out of the door in 2026.

Zirkzee offers a unique profile as a forward, linking play with finesse and creativity, but United’s pursuit of a more direct and physically dominant centre forward raises questions about whether there is room for him long-term. The club’s recruitment team seems intent on building a forward line capable of competing across all fronts, which could mean difficult decisions for popular players.

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Juventus Interest Gives United Leverage

Juventus’ interest in Zirkzee may present United with a chance to command a healthy fee and reinvest in their forward line. Having already signed Jonathan David and Lois Openda, Juve are reshaping their attack, and Zirkzee could be the final piece in their puzzle. That could allow United to finance a deal for Vlahovic without breaching financial regulations, a key consideration in modern recruitment.

Zirkzee’s future now seems tied to United’s willingness to go big again in the striker market. If they decide Vlahovic is the man to partner or rotate with Sesko, Zirkzee’s time in Manchester could be nearing its conclusion.

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The idea of pairing Sesko with Vlahovic is tantalising. Imagine a forward line where both strikers offer power, movement and a relentless goal threat. It would be the kind of statement that shows United are ready to compete with Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal over a full season.

However, there will also be a sadness in seeing Zirkzee leave. His technical ability has made him a fan favourite, and there have been moments where his hold-up play and vision have unlocked stubborn defences. Some supporters will argue he deserves more time to develop into a first-choice striker rather than being sacrificed for another high-profile signing.

Still, with United competing in multiple competitions, squad depth is non-negotiable. The club has learned in recent years that relying too heavily on one or two forwards can be costly when injuries strike. If Zirkzee is sold for a strong fee, it would be a pragmatic decision that helps secure the arrival of another world-class striker.

For now, the message to United fans is simple: enjoy Zirkzee while he is still at the club, because if the recruitment department gets its way, this could be his farewell season at Old Trafford.