Juventus renew interest in Zirkzee
Juventus have reportedly intensified their pursuit of Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee, making contact with the Dutch forward’s representatives. This move comes as the Serie A giants explore alternative options in the transfer market, with negotiations for other attacking targets reportedly stalling. Zirkzee is now emerging as a significant option for the Turin club.
Reports from Italy indicate that Juventus remain in discussions with Paris Saint-Germain regarding Randal Kolo Muani, but an agreement has yet to be reached. With progress on that front proving difficult, Juventus have reopened talks concerning Zirkzee. Initial contact has reportedly been made with the player’s camp, and his estimated annual salary is not anticipated to be a major hurdle.
This is not the first instance of Juventus attempting to secure Zirkzee. The club reportedly made an approach in the summer of 2024 and again during the January transfer window earlier this year, though neither move progressed. Interest in the striker has also extended beyond Turin, with reports from April indicating that Napoli‘s sporting director held discussions with Zirkzee’s representatives.
Manchester United’s stance on transfer
Manchester United are understood to value Zirkzee at between €35 million and €40 million. The Premier League club may now be willing to consider more flexible deal structures, a shift from their previous stance of insisting on a permanent transfer. During the January transfer window, Manchester United rejected loan proposals for Zirkzee, preferring either a permanent sale or a loan with a mandatory purchase clause.
Reports now suggest that Manchester United could be more open to creative arrangements if these ultimately lead to a permanent transfer close to their valuation. This change in approach could enhance Juventus‘ chances of reaching an agreement before the new Serie A season commences. However, with Benjamin Sesko currently sidelined due to injury, Manchester United might consider retaining Zirkzee for additional cover as the team assesses its attacking options.
Zirkzee’s time at Old Trafford has been challenging, particularly during the 2025/26 campaign. He made 24 Premier League appearances but accumulated limited league minutes as competition for attacking positions intensified. The lack of consistent playing time also impacted his international prospects, leading to his omission from the Netherlands squad.
The striker is reportedly seeking more regular first-team football, which contributes to the speculation surrounding a potential return to Italy. His reputation was established before his move to England, notably during the 2023/24 season with Bologna, where he scored 12 goals and provided 7 assists in 37 appearances. These performances garnered attention from several major European clubs and led to regular call-ups for the Netherlands national team.
What’s next for Zirkzee and clubs
Juventus‘ new sporting director, Ricky Massara, could play a crucial role in the potential transfer. Massara previously attempted to sign Zirkzee for Roma and has remained an admirer of the forward. Former Juventus executive Cristiano Giuntoli had also tracked the Dutch international before his departure from the club.
Juventus are expected to continue discussions for both Kolo Muani and Zirkzee in the coming weeks as they finalize their attacking plans. Manchester United will also evaluate offers as they aim to reshape their squad before the upcoming campaign. If negotiations progress, Zirkzee’s future could become a key transfer story to monitor before the summer window closes.
The Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Zirkzee is considered an ideal alternative to Kolo Muani, with Juventus and PSG reportedly having differing valuations for the French striker. This situation has prompted the Serie A club to develop contingency plans. Juventus recently inquired about Zirkzee’s availability and the conditions required to complete a deal, indicating their readiness to act if an agreement with PSG cannot be reached.
Zirkzee’s reported salary is lower than what Kolo Muani would command, making him a financially viable option for Juventus. His limited playing time last season, which included only five starts out of 24 Premier League appearances, saw him contribute two goals and one assist.
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Source: footballplace.co.uk
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”