West Ham move for £43 premier league striker in doubt | OneFootball

West Ham face doubts over £43m Man Utd forward move amid tactical concern

Zirkzee uncertain over January decision

Joshua Zirkzee’s future remains uncertain as the Manchester United forward weighs his options ahead of the January transfer window. According to TeamTalk, the Dutch striker will “show extra caution” before committing to any move, with West Ham United’s interest facing new complications over his preferred role.

Zirkzee, who joined United from Bologna for £43m in the summer of 2024, has struggled to establish himself at Old Trafford. He has managed just seven goals and three assists in 54 appearances, a return that has fuelled speculation about a loan exit. Despite being rated by manager Ruben Amorim, sources suggest the 24-year-old has found it difficult to adapt to the tactical demands of the current system.

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“Zirkzee is keeping an open mind,” one insider told TeamTalk. “He wants to make sure that his next move suits his strengths, not just the club’s short-term needs.”

Tactical issues limiting opportunities

At Manchester United, Zirkzee has been used sparingly, featuring for just 82 minutes in the Premier League this season. Amorim values the player’s technical ability and link-up play but has struggled to integrate him into a pressing structure that relies on pace and directness in transition.

The situation mirrors Zirkzee’s early career challenges, where his natural tendency to drop deep and create rather than finish left coaches uncertain of his best position. Sources close to the player have suggested he “wants to find a role similar to the one he enjoyed at Bologna,” where he thrived as a support striker, drifting between the lines and facilitating attacks.

That nuance could prove decisive in determining his next move.

West Ham move complicated by stylistic fit

While West Ham are exploring forward options for January, doubts have emerged about whether Zirkzee fits Nuno Espirito Santo’s system. The Hammers are actively seeking a traditional No 9 to provide a consistent goal threat, but Zirkzee himself “does not see himself playing as a No 9,” according to reports.

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It raises questions about whether the move would serve either party. West Ham’s track record in recruiting forwards has been mixed, with previous signings struggling to replicate their form in the Premier League. Zirkzee’s profile, elegant, technical, but not prolific, contrasts with the physical focal point Nuno appears to favour.

At present, a loan deal looks more realistic than a permanent transfer, but both clubs may decide that the fit is simply not right.

Uncertain months ahead for player and club

For Manchester United, offloading Zirkzee on loan could offer valuable game time while preserving his long-term potential. Yet the lack of clear positional identity continues to cloud his trajectory. He remains a talented player searching for a tactical environment that allows him to express his creativity.

Whether that will be in London, Manchester, or somewhere else entirely remains to be seen.

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West Ham supporters have seen similar stories play out before, from Sebastien Haller to Gianluca Scamacca, both skilful players who struggled to adapt to the club’s tactical demands.

Zirkzee’s style would divide opinion. Many fans admire his technical grace and composure, qualities rarely found in modern forwards. But West Ham’s system under Nuno Espirito Santo requires a striker who thrives on physical duels and direct service, not one who drifts between midfield lines.

The frustration lies in the pattern. West Ham’s recruitment often seems reactive rather than precise. If the club are looking for a prolific scorer, Zirkzee may not be the answer. His own admission that he does not see himself as a No 9 makes the link feel more speculative than strategic.

Still, there’s a sense of curiosity. If used creatively, perhaps in a two-striker setup or as a false nine, Zirkzee could offer something different. Yet that would demand tactical flexibility, something West Ham have lacked. Fans will hope the club focus on signings that truly fit Nuno’s system rather than repeating past missteps in the January window.