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Joshua Zirkzee, currently struggling at Manchester United, is reportedly looking to leave his club to rejoin his previous manager Thiago Motta at Juventus.
Zirkzee, 23, has only found the net once in 18 appearances since his £36.5million move from Bologna last summer.
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Credit: Getty
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Credit: Alamy
The Dutch forward has faced difficulties securing a consistent spot in United’s starting eleven under various coaches, including Erik ten Hag and Ruud van Nistelrooy, with the new manager Ruben Amorim expressing frustration following recent criticism.
According to La Gazzetta, Zirkzee is contemplating a return to Italy as soon as January.
Prior to his move to Old Trafford, Zirkzee scored 14 goals in 53 matches for Bologna.
Although not an outstanding scorer, Zirkzee was recognized for his valuable link-up play that helped Bologna earn a spot in the Champions League last season.
During his two years at the club, he was coached by former Barcelona, Inter Milan, and PSG player Motta, who is now leading Juventus.
Reports indicate that Zirkzee is keen on joining Motta in Turin next year.
Juventus is reportedly keen on finalizing a deal, riding on their undefeated streak in Serie A.
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They are aiming to secure a loan agreement with United for the remainder of the season, with the possibility of negotiating a permanent move next summer.
Ruben Amorim moved by Old Trafford welcome in win over Bodo/Glimt
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Credit: Getty
However, for United to agree to the transfer, they will likely need to find a fitting replacement first.
The club’s recent transfer moves have been limited by PSR and FFP regulations.
This situation might restrict United to only being able to afford a temporary striker, a challenging find in the current market.
However, Amorim has expressed disappointment with Zirkzee’s contributions and may use this as an opportunity to recruit a player of his choice.
After his first match as manager, a 1-1 draw against Ipswich, Amorim raised concerns about Zirkzee’s grasp of the No. 9 position.
Amorim remarked: “Decision-making is an issue; at this level, players shouldn’t need specialized coaching for that. Maintaining possession and knowing when to progress the ball are key. In critical moments, especially towards the end of the match, our positioning around the box required Josh to be present for crosses.”
Ten Hag’s Man Utd Signings
Since joining Old Trafford in 2022, the Dutch manager has brought in 21 players to the squad.
2022-23:
Antony, (Ajax) £86m
Casemiro, (Real Madrid) £70m
Lisandro Martinez, (Ajax) £46m
Tyrell Malacia, (Feyenoord) £13m
Christian Eriksen, (Brentford) free
Martin Dubravka, (Newcastle) loan
Wout Weghorst, (Burnley) loan
Jack Butland, (Crystal Palace) loan
Marcel Sabitzer, (Bayern Munich) loan
2023-24:
Rasmus Hojlund, (Atalanta) £72m
Mason Mount, (Chelsea) £60m
Andre Onana, (Inter Milan) £47m
Sofyan Amrabat, (Fiorentina) loan
Altay Bayindir, (Fenerbahce) £4.3m
Jonny Evans, (Leicester) free
Sergio Reguilon, (Tottenham) loan
2024-25:
Leny Yoro, (Lille) £52m
Manuel Ugarte, (Paris Saint-Germain) £50m
Matthijs de Ligt, (Bayern Munich) £45m
Joshua Zirkzee, (Bologna) £36.5m
Noussair Mazraoui, (Bayern Munich) £12.8m
