£36.5m star now wants to depart Man Utd even if Solskjaer arrives, four-year deal on table
Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee is determined to join Roma this winter despite the recent dismissal of manager Ruben Amorim, according to Il Messaggero.
The Red Devils recently parted ways with Amorim and have placed Darren Fletcher on temporary charge.
They are likely to appoint another caretaker manager in the coming days, and reports have claimed that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the number one candidate for the vacancy.
Amidst this, Il Messaggero claim that Zirkzee’s stance has not changed with Amorim’s dismissal, and he is still keen on securing a new challenge away from the Mancunian giants.
Roma have already offered a four-year contract on the table worth €3 million plus bonuses (likely net salary). The player feels that Gian Piero Gasperini’s set-up will bring out the best in him.
Zirkzee is said to be desperate to make the Netherlands’ World Cup squad next summer, and even a change of system under Solskjaer (4-2-3-1) won’t convince him to stay with the Red Devils.
Roma sporting director Ricky Massara has spoken with the Dutchman’s entourage, who have reiterated the striker’s desire to join the Serie A outfit during the ongoing transfer window.
The Giallorossi remain confident of pushing through a deal once Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo return from their international commitments at the Africa Cup of Nations this month.
United must not lose Zirkzee without a replacement
The former Bologna man has endured a tough career with the Red Devils, and he has largely played as a backup for the centre-forward role since his £36.5 million move in July 2024.
Despite this, United must not part ways with his services this winter unless they find a replacement.
Zirkzee has shown signs of returning to form since the last international break. The 24-year-old scored a wonderful goal from a tight angle at Crystal Palace, which contributed to a 2-1 comeback win.
The Dutchman was denied a goal against Everton by a sublime Jordan Pickford save, while a goal-line clearance from Aaron Wan-Bissaka saw him go goalless against West Ham United.
Zirkzee has since contributed another goal and assist for the Red Devils. He was brilliant in his cameo at Leeds United, where he caught the eye with his movement and link-up play.
Benjamin Sesko was back to scoring ways against Burnley yesterday with a brace (2-2 draw), but United still need more depth and quality in the squad to handle a future injury crisis.
Zirkzee has been guaranteed a starting role at Roma in a 3-4-2-1 formation, but United should not entertain his departure unless they can bring in another forward at least on loan.
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Article written by Sri Aswin .