Top News

By Paddy Keogh · 18 July 2026

Joshua Zirkzee currently finds himself in a difficult position at Manchester United. The Dutch striker remains eager to prove his worth at Old Trafford, yet the club seems intent on selling him as part of their ongoing effort to refresh their attacking lineup.

Despite being viewed as surplus to requirements, moving Zirkzee on has not been straightforward. Interest from Turkey and Italy, including reported attention from Fenerbahçe, has emerged, but United are unwilling to accept any offer that would result in a significant financial setback.

While loan moves have been discussed, Manchester United are believed to prefer a permanent transfer. Consequently, Zirkzee remains at the club with both player and management uncertain about the next steps.

Zirkzee’s time at Old Trafford has not unfolded as he had hoped. Signed with the reputation of being a technically skilled forward capable of linking play, dropping deeper, and creating chances, he has found it difficult to impose himself in English football consistently.

His lack of goals has been a major concern, and doubts persist over whether he possesses the physicality and intensity needed to lead the line for Manchester United.

There have been flashes of his ability. Zirkzee is adept at holding the ball under pressure and combining effectively with attacking midfielders and wingers. His approach differs from that of a typical penalty-box striker, yet United have not seen enough decisive contributions from him.

Despite these challenges, Zirkzee remains determined to succeed. Reports suggest the forward wants one more opportunity to show his potential and ensure that his current struggles do not define his time in Manchester. He is regarded as a positive presence within the squad and is well liked by both staff and teammates, choosing not to push for a move unless it suits him.

However, his personal ambitions appear to clash with the club’s strategic plans. Zirkzee aims to rebuild his career at Old Trafford, but United seem open to parting ways if the right offer comes in.

Manchester United’s attacking plans have further complicated Zirkzee’s situation. Benjamin Sesko is expected to be the main striker, while the club had been exploring options to bring in a more seasoned forward to provide depth and competition.

The management has been looking for a proven striker who can act as a dependable backup to Sesko—someone with experience, leadership, and a consistent goal-scoring record when the first-choice striker is unavailable.

Zirkzee does not fully match that profile. Still developing his game, he relies more on technical link-up play than on consistently attacking the box, leading United to believe he may not be the ideal alternative to Sesko.

This assessment has led the club to consider him expendable. Funds from his sale could be reinvested to strengthen other areas of the squad or to sign a striker who aligns better with the manager’s vision.

However, United’s pursuit of another striker could hinge on Marcus Rashford’s future.

Rashford’s situation remains a key variable in Manchester United’s summer transfer strategy. The club had initially hoped his departure would free up wages and squad space, facilitating new attacking arrivals.

Yet, a permanent move for Rashford now appears uncertain. If he stays, United may find it difficult to bring in the experienced striker they had initially targeted to support Sesko.

This could inadvertently work in Zirkzee’s favour. Even if the club remains open to offers, they may decide to retain him if they cannot secure another centre-forward.

United are aware they cannot risk starting the season with limited attacking depth. Injuries, suspensions, and fixture congestion make it essential to have multiple options available, especially since several forwards are more comfortable playing out wide.

In such circumstances, Zirkzee may stay by default rather than by design. It would give him the chance he desires, but he would still need to perform impressively to convince United that he deserves a long-term role.

Fenerbahçe have been linked with Zirkzee as they look to boost their attacking options. A move to Turkey could provide him with more consistent game time and a fresh start away from the pressures of Manchester United.

Interest from Italy also persists, where Zirkzee previously enjoyed one of the most productive spells of his career. A return to Serie A might suit his playing style, as his technical movement and link-up play are highly valued there.

Italian clubs reportedly believe that Zirkzee’s struggles in England do not accurately reflect his potential. His prior form in Serie A demonstrated that he can thrive in a system that complements his technical strengths.

However, no formal offer has yet met Manchester United’s valuation.

Financial considerations remain a major obstacle to any transfer. Although United are open to selling, they are unwilling to accept a deal that would result in a substantial loss on their initial investment.

Zirkzee’s market value has declined due to inconsistent performances and a limited goal-scoring record since his arrival in England. Potential buyers are likely to use this as leverage during negotiations, while United will highlight his youth, potential, and previous success in Italy.

The club must also weigh the financial implications of any sale. Offloading him at a low price could force United to register a loss on their books, something they are keen to avoid while managing expenses and adhering to financial fair play regulations.

For now, United seem prepared to wait rather than accept an unsatisfactory offer.

Zirkzee remains caught between personal ambition and club strategy. Manchester United are open to his departure, interested clubs are exploring loan possibilities, and the player continues to hope for a breakthrough that will secure his place.

His immediate future may depend on external factors such as Rashford’s situation, United’s ability to sign another striker, and whether Fenerbahçe or an Italian side are willing to meet the club’s asking price.

If Zirkzee stays, he must seize every opportunity. Strong performances and consistent scoring could prompt United to reconsider their stance. If he fails to deliver, the perception of his transfer as an unsuccessful one will only become more entrenched.

For now, Joshua Zirkzee remains stuck in limbo at Manchester United—still at Old Trafford, still fighting for his place, while the club await an offer that allows them to move forward without suffering a damaging financial loss.