Italian giants leading the race to sign Man United star in January – Report | OneFootball

Roma and Como Compete to Rescue Out-of-Favour Manchester United Forward

Italian Return on the Horizon

Joshua Zirkzee could be set for a surprise return to Serie A as his Manchester United spell continues to stall, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The Dutch striker, who enjoyed the best season of his career at Bologna, is now seeking regular football after struggling to break into United’s first team.

Photo IMAGO

At Old Trafford, opportunities have been limited. Zirkzee has made just four appearances this season, none from the start, totalling only 82 minutes of action. Unsurprisingly, frustration is growing. “He knows he is behind Sesko, Cunha and even Bryan Mbeumo,” the report stated, adding that the forward is increasingly open to leaving in January.

Photo IMAGO

Serie A Clubs Step Forward

In Italy, two clubs are leading the chase. Roma are exploring a potential loan deal as they look to strengthen their attacking options, while Como are emerging as serious contenders thanks to their financial backing and long-term ambition.

Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini, a mentor to Thiago Motta who coached Zirkzee at Bologna, is believed to be keen on reuniting with the player. The Giallorossi see him as a cost-effective alternative to Dovbyk, whose future remains uncertain, and as a solution to cover injuries in their forward line.

Photo IMAGO

“Gasperini wanted him at Atalanta and believes he can revive his career in Italy,” Gazzetta dello Sport noted. The appeal of Europa League football, combined with familiarity with Serie A, could make Roma an attractive destination.

Como’s Ambitious Pitch

However, Como present an intriguing alternative. Backed by the wealthy Hartono family, the club have the means to make a permanent offer rather than just a loan. They lack Roma’s European pull but can guarantee a central role and competitive wages.

Como’s project has already turned heads in Italy, and signing Zirkzee would further underline their growing ambitions. For the player, it represents a chance to rediscover confidence and minutes at a club building steadily for the future.

A January exit from Manchester appears likely, and whichever Italian side moves first could secure one of the market’s more intriguing deals.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

There was excitement amongst United fans when Zirkzee joined, a belief that his technical quality and experience in Italy could offer something different. Yet months into the campaign, the reality is clear: he has not been given the platform to prove himself.

Many supporters feel that his limited appearances have been harsh, particularly when United’s attack has struggled for consistency. The Dutchman’s link-up play and composure in tight spaces could complement the squad’s younger forwards, but patience is wearing thin on all sides.

A move to Italy might suit everyone. For United, a sale or loan could free wages and create space for reinforcements in January. For Zirkzee, it’s a chance to reset his career in a familiar environment where his best football was played.

The looming question for United fans is whether this will become another case of potential wasted. The club have let several talented players leave too early in recent years, only to watch them thrive elsewhere. Supporters will hope that if Zirkzee departs, the deal includes conditions allowing his return or at least rewards the club should he rediscover his best form.