Man United eyeing January move for striker – Report | OneFootball

Manchester United Weigh Zirkzee Exit in January

Manchester United’s transfer plans for January are beginning to take shape, with CaughtOffside reporting that the board are prepared to sanction an “ideal one-in-one-out scenario” in attack. Ruben Amorim has been handed licence to reshape his frontline, and Joshua Zirkzee could be the first casualty.

According to the report, “Man Utd could be prepared to listen to offers for Joshua Zirkzee this winter in the aim of funding a move for a replacement.” The Dutch forward has not hit the heights expected since arriving from Bologna, and his record of 7 goals in 53 appearances underlines those struggles.

Zirkzee’s Struggles at Old Trafford

Zirkzee was brought in with hope of adding a different dimension to United’s attack, but his impact has been minimal. CaughtOffside note that “it perhaps makes sense that the Netherlands international’s future is already in doubt,” as Amorim looks to lift a squad that continues to underperform.

United are believed to value Zirkzee at around €35-40 million, a fee that could help bring in a more clinical forward. For fans, the concern is not the player leaving, but ensuring that there is suitable cover brought in. As the article points out, “it is surely key for Amorim to be given a replacement or there would be a serious lack of depth up front.”

Possible Replacements Under Consideration

The options are not yet confirmed, but names have been linked. In the summer, United reportedly discussed Victor Osimhen, Liam Delap, and Jean-Philippe Mateta. CaughtOffside suggest that “it surely shouldn’t be too hard for them to find an upgrade on the disappointing Zirkzee.” While Osimhen may be out of reach financially, players like Mateta offer a more affordable alternative.

Photo: IMAGO

Amorim’s January Test

For Amorim, this January window represents a significant test. The Portuguese coach must balance the demands of rebuilding with the expectations of fans hungry for results. Removing Zirkzee may be straightforward, but identifying and securing the right replacement will be what truly defines United’s winter business.

United’s lack of goals has been a persistent issue, and Amorim’s ability to solve it quickly could prove decisive in the race for improvement.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United supporter’s perspective, the idea of moving Zirkzee on feels both inevitable and necessary. While there were glimpses of technical quality, his lack of consistency and poor goal return made him an easy target for criticism. Seven goals in 53 matches is nowhere near enough for a forward expected to compete at the top end of the Premier League.

The bigger issue lies in recruitment. United fans have seen this before – players signed for significant money only to underwhelm, then offloaded at a loss. It is vital that Amorim, together with the recruitment team, identifies a striker who fits both tactically and mentally into what United are trying to build.

There is also a wider frustration among the fanbase. Constant chopping and changing in the forward line reflects a lack of long-term vision. Amorim has backing now, but patience will wear thin if another high-profile signing fails. Whoever comes in must not only replace Zirkzee’s squad role but also bring a cutting edge to a team that still feels short of firepower.