Joshua Zirkzee has been heavily linked with a move away from Manchester United, amid concerns over his playing time under Rúben Amorim.
Rúben Amorim has some difficult decisions to make in the coming weeks, as he looks to keep his job at Manchester United, with one of those being the Joshua Zirkzee conundrum.
Zirkzee started the season on the bench alongside Benjamin Šeško, with Matheus Cunha leading the line. The Dutchman missed United’s pre-season through injury, only returning to team training after the last match against Fiorentina.
The former Bayern Munich youngster has only played 82 minutes this season, as he was an unused substitute with the 2-0 win against Sunderland before the international break.
Šeško’s form has kept Zirkzee out of the side, and he is unlikely to play in attacking midfield, with Mason Mount shining alongside Bryan Mbeumo last time out.
Recent reports have stated that Zirkzee is looking for a move away from Old Trafford to play regular football before the World Cup at the end of the season, although a fresh update has provided more clarity on the situation.
Zirkzee doesn’t want to leave United
Despite his lack of game time this season, Zirkzee’s love for United is clear to see in his short cameos. He is always fighting for every ball and passionate when a goal is scored or a win is confirmed. Zirkzee loves being at United, and a new report has confirmed that.
Graeme Bailey, via United in Focus, has revealed that: “Zirkzee doesn’t want to leave United, but if his lack of game time continues, he will have no choice.”
United also don’t want to see Zirkzee leave, as that would leave just Chido Obi as the only natural backup to Šeško, with Cunha favouring the No.10 role. However, the report states that United may consider a loan move.
With no Champions League or Carabao Cup football, mid-week football will be a rare commodity at Old Trafford, so Zirkzee could return next season when United should be competing in Europe.
Several Premier League sides are said to be interested in Zirkzee if a deal becomes possible, with Everton and West Ham United among those. Feyenoord and Parma are also monitoring Zirkzee’s situation.
A loan for Zirkzee suits all parties
Zirkzee won’t have the opportunity to play regular football at United this season, unless Šeško picks up a serious injury, but he will be needed if the Red Devils return to Europe next year.
His versatility allows him to cover multiple roles, while his style of play can also be beneficial against European sides due to his quick feet and hold-up ability.
The former Bologna player could help Obi’s transition to the first team, as he is a more creative player who could play alongside the young Dane. Zirkzee’s selflessness could help Obi get off the mark for Amorim’s senior side.
Selling Zirkzee could see United take a serious hit on the £36.5 million they paid for the Dutchman just over one year ago. A loan move, however, makes perfect sense.
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