'Real baller' Joshua Zirkzee backed to become a Man Utd 'superstar' next season despite struggles for form and fitness in 2024-25

The 23-year-old swapped Bologna for United last summer in a £36 million ($46m) deal but he has scored just seven goals in 48 games since then. However, club legend Lee Sharpe has described him as a "real baller" and someone who can come good next term.

The former United star told The Metro: "I like Zirkzee – he was unfortunate to get injured when he did, but he’s a real baller and I think he can be a superstar for Manchester United if he can get games under his belt. He needs a regular run. I don’t think he’s had a 10-game stint where he has actually played week in, week out. There were reports that he wasn’t quite fit when he signed, so it took him a bit of time to get up to speed. I think he was just finding his feet when he got injured but I think he’s going to prove a real key player next season."

Despite this praise, Zirkzee has, arguably, been one of the most disappointing signings made in the Premier League this season. His goal return is poor, and the Dutchman has already been linked with a Serie A switch. Injuries have curtailed his game time recently but it remains to be seen if United will cash in or give him another chance.

Zirkzee is back in training ahead of United's Europa League final clash against Tottenham on Wednesday but it is up in the air over what role he will play in the contest.