Joshua Zirkzee in line for Serie A return as title contenders add struggling Man Utd striker to list of January targets

Joshua Zirkzee is pushing for a January exit from Manchester United as the striker continues to struggle for playing time under Ruben Amorim. Roma, managed by long-term admirer Gian Piero Gasperini, are lining up a loan move to bring the former Bologna star back to Serie A, offering a chance to boost his hopes of making Netherlands' squad for the World Cup.

Roma considering January loan for out-of-favour forward
Roma are exploring a January loan move for United's Dutch striker, according to a report from Gazzetta dello Sport. Zirkzee, who has endured a woeful spell at Old Trafford following his move from Bologna, is keen to secure regular football to boost his chances of convincing Ronald Koeman to add him to the Oranje squad for the 2026 World Cup.

AFP
Zirkzee's struggles at Old Trafford
Since his €42.5 million (£37m/$49m) transfer from Bologna in the summer of 2024, Zirkzee has failed to make an impact at United. The 24-year-old has been limited to just 82 minutes of action across four substitute appearances this season, finding himself behind Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko, and Bryan Mbeumo in the pecking order. Having not started a single match in the 2025-26 campaign, United may have to settle for around €30m (£26m/$35m) if they are to offload him.
Roma boss Gasperini a long-term admirer
The Giallorossi's interest is driven by manager Gasperini, who was keen on signing Zirkzee for his former club Atalanta. The striker’s versatility and proven track record in Serie A with Bologna make him an attractive option for Roma, who are looking to bolster their attack. A loan deal is seen as financially viable, with Roma expected to cover approximately €1.8 million of his salary for the remainder of the season.

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World Cup ambitions driving exit push
Zirkzee's desire for a move is fuelled by his international aspirations. After being left out of the most recent Netherlands squad by coach Koeman, the striker is understood to have instructed his agent to find him a new club in the upcoming transfer window. A return to a familiar league where he previously excelled could be the ideal platform to reignite his career and secure his place on the plane to the World Cup.
AFP
What next for Zirkzee and Man Utd?
A January departure for Zirkzee appears increasingly likely, with Roma emerging as a strong contender for his signature. However, they could face competition from Premier League sides West Ham and Everton, who are also said to be monitoring the situation. United must now decide whether to sanction a temporary move for their struggling asset to help him regain form or retain him as a peripheral squad player for the second half of the season.