Joshua Zirkzee looked destined for a move to Roma, but a decision by Manchester United has now put the move in jeopardy.
Despite failing to return to winning ways after the exit of Rúben Amorim, there was much to be optimistic about during Manchester United’s 2-2 draw with Burnley in the Premier League.
Not only did the change in system and return of Bruno Fernandes as the No.10 elevate United’s fluidity in play, but it also brought out the very best in Benjamin Šeško. The striker was the focal point of the side, and his constant runs were rewarded with two goals.
While facing Brighton in the FA Cup is not an easy fixture to start with, there is optimism that a mentally rejuvenated United side can take the game to the Seagulls in a traditional Manchester United attacking way.
However, away from the pitch, the January transfer window is well underway, and the Red Devils have already made some big decisions regarding the future of some of their stars.
United set to block Zirkzee exit
Rumours of Joshua Zirkzee moving to Roma have rumbled on and got louder as the season went on. With the player seemingly out of the picture under Amorim, it seemed that his future was all but decided. All that was required was for the club to give the green light.
However, with the Portuguese manager no longer at the club, there has been a twist in this story.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, after weeks of trying to negotiate with United, they have been left frustrated. The sacking of Amorim has meant United have decided to block any future move for the player as of now.
The deal is not 100% over, but barring other circumstances, like the next manager not having Zirkzee in their plans, this transfer saga seems to have come to an end.
Focus on the midfield
With not only this saga but also the future of Kobbie Mainoo being more certain than ever, with both set to stay, United should be switching their focus.
It was clear that the Red Devils went into this window with the plan to go for Antoine Semenyo, but with that deal not going ahead, United should have come up with other targets.
Read more: “Scared…” – Gary Neville sends brutal dig to Ruben Amorim after Manchester United sack
Understandably, the club want to avoid past situations of splurging cash for no reason, hence the reason they only want to target long-term targets like Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson. However, as the recent injuries to Fernandes, Mason Mount and Mainoo have shown, it does not take much for the squad to be run to the ground, and then suddenly Lisandro Martínez is playing in midfield.
A move for low-cost options that still raise the foundation level of the squad may be beneficial, and they will still play a long-term role as squad players. Joao Gomes from Wolverhampton Wanderers would be perfect for that role. Should Casemiro depart in the summer, Gomes could take on his role while adding more legs to the squad that the club lacks.
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