Roma eye Manchester United forward Zirkzee as Dovbyk injury forces January rethink | OneFootball

Roma are expected to return to the transfer market in January after Artem Dovbyk suffered a thigh tendon injury that could keep him sidelined until early 2026.

With Dybala, Bailey and Ferguson also out, Gian Piero Gasperini has reportedly made it clear to the Roma management that he needs a new striker, and Joshua Zirkzee has emerged as the top target, according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 20: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United looks on during a Manchester United training session ahead of the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Carrington Training Ground on May 20, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)

The Dutch forward is pushing to leave Manchester United after featuring only a handful of times this season under Ruben Amorim.

Zirkzee wants regular football & Roma need new striker

Zirkzee wants regular football to boost his World Cup hopes and is keen on returning to Serie A, where he previously impressed at Bologna.

Roma could provide that platform, though his agent Kia Joorabchian would prefer he remains in the Premier League, with West Ham showing interest.

Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United gestures during the warm up prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester United FC at Anfield on January 05, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Vice-president Ryan Friedkin has already discussed possible reinforcements at Trigoria, and Roma’s injury crisis may now force a decisive move for Zirkzee when the window opens.