Man United set £30m price tag on star ahead of January exit – Report | OneFootball

Joshua Zirkzee Facing January Exit as Manchester United Prepare to Cash In

Joshua Zirkzee’s time at Manchester United appears to be reaching a crossroads. As reported by CaughtOffside, the Dutch striker is “heading for a decisive moment” in his United career after struggling for minutes under Rúben Amorim this season. The arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Šeško, and Bryan Mbeumo have pushed him further down the pecking order.

At just 24, Zirkzee’s career is approaching a crucial phase, with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. Regular game time is vital if he wants to remain in the Netherlands squad, and as CaughtOffside revealed, the player “wants a solution in the January transfer window with a move away from Old Trafford highly likely.”

United Open to Selling, Several Clubs Interested

Manchester United are reportedly open to cashing in, with an asking price set around the £30million mark. Zirkzee remains under contract until June 2029, giving United leverage in negotiations. Still, the forward’s lack of minutes makes an exit seem increasingly inevitable.

West Ham United have made “initial contact to test the waters and understand the financials,” with the Hammers viewing Zirkzee as an intriguing option to bolster their attack. Brighton are also interested, although competition for minutes there “will be more intense.” Aston Villa, meanwhile, are said to “admire Zirkzee’s profile as depth behind their first-choice options,” especially with European fixtures creating additional opportunities for rotation.

Italian Interest Could Shape His Next Step

Italy could prove a more appealing destination for Zirkzee. His previous success with Bologna left a lasting impression, and Serie A suitors are now circling again. Roma are keen but, due to Financial Fair Play restrictions, can only propose a loan, “covering wages with an option to revisit a fee in the summer.”

Juventus and Milan are also monitoring developments closely, each aware of the striker’s proven pedigree in Italian football. Even newly ambitious Como, under Cesc Fàbregas, are reported to have “entertained the idea of a marquee move,” though financial limitations make such a deal improbable.

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A Missed Opportunity for Both Club and Player

Zirkzee’s situation reflects the wider challenge facing many young forwards at top clubs. Recruited with high expectations, he has found limited chances to showcase his ability. “A striker who was signed with high expectations and hope of a better future is now about to be shown the exit door at Man United,” CaughtOffside concluded.

For Amorim, it is a case of prioritising form and tactical fit over sentiment. For Zirkzee, the January window now represents not just a transfer opportunity, but a potential lifeline for his international ambitions.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, Zirkzee’s likely departure feels like another example of a promising talent slipping through the cracks. Supporters had hoped the Dutchman’s technical ability and composure could bring a different edge to United’s forward line, but he never quite cemented a place under Rúben Amorim.

Many fans admire Amorim’s tactical clarity and his willingness to demand high standards, yet questions linger about whether the manager has been too quick to sideline attacking players like Zirkzee. The arrivals of Šeško, Cunha, and Mbeumo created a clear hierarchy, leaving little space for rotation in the system.

West Ham or Aston Villa would offer Premier League continuity, but a return to Serie A could be ideal. At Bologna, Zirkzee thrived as a focal point in a system built around his movement and creativity. Juventus or Milan could offer similar setups and reignite his confidence before the World Cup.

Ultimately, while Zirkzee’s exit may make financial sense, some United supporters will wonder whether the club truly maximised his potential. If he finds success elsewhere, this could be another decision that fans look back on with frustration.