West Ham United ‘leading the race’ to sign Man United star in January | OneFootball

West Ham target Manchester United forward ahead of January transfer window

Joshua Zirkzee has informed Manchester United of his intention to leave the club in January, with West Ham United emerging as early contenders for his signature, according to The Mirror. The Dutch forward, signed for £36 million from Bologna during Erik ten Hag’s tenure, has endured a torrid spell at Old Trafford and is desperate for a move that could reignite both his club and international career.

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Zirkzee’s United struggles deepen

Zirkzee’s time in Manchester has been defined by frustration and limited opportunity. Despite flashes of potential, the 24-year-old has scored just seven goals in 49 appearances since joining United, with his last league strike coming ten months ago in December. Under new manager Ruben Amorim, the forward has slipped further down the pecking order, following the arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko.

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The Mirror reports that “Zirkzee knows he has no future at Manchester United” and that the club will “listen to offers” for him when the transfer window opens. United could sanction either a permanent move or a loan with an option to buy, depending on the level of interest.

West Ham explore January move

West Ham are closely monitoring the situation and are expected to lead the chase should United make Zirkzee available. The Hammers have struggled for consistency in front of goal this season, and manager Nuno Espirito Santo is eager to add more variety to his attacking options.

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A move to the London Stadium could appeal to Zirkzee, who “would prefer to remain in the Premier League,” according to the report. For the player, regular football is now essential if he hopes to force his way into Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands squad for next summer’s World Cup. Koeman has reportedly told the striker that he “has to be starting more games if he wants to be considered.”

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The coming weeks could prove decisive as United prepare for another major squad reshuffle, and Zirkzee seeks a lifeline.

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Zirkzee’s technical ability and physical presence would suit West Ham’s attacking blueprint, especially in games where they struggle to retain possession higher up the pitch. His style, often compared to a modern target man who links play rather than finishing moves, could complement the likes of Jarrod Bowen.

However, there is a lingering concern about his goal output. Seven goals across 49 appearances is a worrying return for a player signed as a striker. West Ham supporters have seen too many forwards arrive with promise but struggle under the weight of expectation. The potential solution could be a loan-to-buy deal, allowing the club to assess his form and mentality before committing significant funds.

Fans would likely welcome Zirkzee if he arrives hungry and motivated, particularly given his age and potential ceiling. But this move would need to be about more than sentiment or short-term fixes. If managed correctly, Zirkzee could find at West Ham what he never truly found at Old Trafford: trust, continuity and a system that plays to his strengths.