CL giants plotting January swoop for United forward, INEOS have a decision on their hands – report

Joshua Zirkzee’s time at Manchester United hasn’t unfolded as expected.

The Dutch forward was signed by former manager Erik ten Hag in the summer of 2024 following an impressive run with Bologna.

Zirkzee was a joy to watch with the Serie A side in the 2023/24 campaign, where he was deployed as a No. 9 but given carte blanche on the job.

The Dutchman didn’t just score goals, he created chances, set up his teammates and found his way on to United’s radar.

The 24-year-old finished the campaign with 12 goals in all competitions, and was included in the Serie A team of the year.

The Red Devils subsequently came calling and brought him to Old Trafford to spearhead their attack.

An underwhelming start at the Theatre of Dreams

Zirkzee sent fans into a frenzy by scoring on his debut against Fulham in the Premier League. Sadly, it turned out to be a false dawn.

Despite showing flashes of brilliance, he was largely a shadow of his former self with United.

The Dutchman ended his debut campaign with just seven goals from 49 games.

The Red Devils took no chances in the summer, signing Benjamin Sesko as the new focal point of their attack.

The Slovenian’s arrival has added to speculation about Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford.

It now appears that he could be offered the chance to return to Italy.

Juventus have Zirkzee on their wish list

According to Tuttosport, Juventus have Zirkzee on their wish list as they look for Dusan Vlahovic’s replacement in January.

The Bianconeri would prefer to sign Ademola Lookman for the job, but prising him away from Atalanta won’t be easy.

The Old Lady are now scouring the market for alternatives and have their eyes on Santiago Castro, Matteo Pellegrino, and Gianluca Scamacca as options.

Zirkzee is also on Juventus’ radar, especially since he is proven in Serie A. However, the Turin hierarchy is sceptical about the move due to his struggles at Old Trafford.

It is unclear if United would consider an exit in the middle of the season, especially since Sesko has yet to get going so far.

Feature image Gareth Copley via Getty Images

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