In the competition to recruit Joshua Zirkzee, Roma attempted to get an early advantage, but Manchester United is not in a hurry. Furthermore, despite the fact that the player has generally suffered since relocating to England, their assessment of him is strong.
Calciomercato reports that Frederic Massara, the director of Giallorossi, travelled to London for a few days to talk with Premier League teams and intermediaries. The Dutchman’s door has not been closed by the Red Devils.
They like to hold off until mid-January, though. AFCON 2025 will include some of their attackers. Benjamin Sesko is also coming back from a knee injury. More significantly, in order to let go of the former Bologna star, they seek at least €35 million.
Gian Piero Gasperini, the coach of Roma, has approved an investment in Zirkzee. However, whether they can provide that much is still up for debate. The formula will probably be a loan with a conditional purchase obligation if the sale closes. In the next weeks, the management will determine whether to continue or pursue alternative goals.
Roma director in London to hold talks with Manchester United
Corriere dello Sport reports that after Roma’s Europa League victory against Celtic in Glasgow, sports director Frederic Massara flew to London to talk about Zirkzee’s possible move.
Both United and the Dutchman’s agents are in negotiations with the Serie A powerhouses. Their goal is to get a consensus over a first loan arrangement. However, United hopes to immediately get about €30 million from Zirkzee’s move in January.
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the Netherlands international’s top aim is playing regular minutes. According to the Italian magazine, Zirkzee wants to make a decision about his future now rather than waiting until the last days of the winter window.
But United would like to hold off until players like Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo return from their Africa Cup of Nations obligations. Kobbie Mainoo, an English midfielder who has battled for opportunities under Ruben Amorim, is anticipated to seek a move away from Old Trafford; thus, the Red Devils’ purported position might potentially put him in limbo.
