Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has received a double boost in both bringing in and offloading stars this summer transfer window.
Following a 1-0 loss to Championship outfit Wrexham, the Red Devils continue their pre-season preparations with a trip to face Norwegian outfit Rosenborg on Sunday. But away from the pitch, the club have also been very busy and are eyeing more transfers.
Surprise moves have seen United recruit midfielders Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa respectively, while young winger Tynan Thompson was prised away from Tottenham. Backup goalkeeper Karl Darlow has also arrived from Leeds.
Joshua Zirkzee attracts Juventus interest
United striker Joshua Zirkzee has caught the attention of Juventus, as the Serie A giants consider a swoop for the Dutch flop.
Goalshy forward Zirkzee has frequently been linked with a return to Italy following his struggles to make an impact in the Premier League since his £36.5million arrival at Old Trafford from Bologna in 2024, reports the Mirror. Despite netting just five goals in 56 Premier League outings since he arrived under Erik ten Hag, the 25-year-old's reputation in Italy appears to remain intact.
Gazetta dello Sport report Juventus CEO Giovanni Carnevali and sporting director Marco Ottolini are seeking to replace Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic, who was recently released on a free transfer after failing to agree terms on a new contract. Zirkzee is understood to have received 'texts, calls and video calls' as the Serie A heavyweights explored his availability. Juve's top choice is believed to be Paris Saint-Germain's Kolo Muani, though their £34m offer for the fringe player has yet to be accepted as the Parisians seek to secure a higher fee.
Zirkzee featured in United's opening pre-season fixture of the summer and was unable to score as Carrick's side suffered defeat to Wrexham. In April, it was claimed Zirkzee was 'determined' to remain at Old Trafford past the summer, yet it appears he could be heading elsewhere.
Alex Scott boost for United
United have received a lift in their pursuit of Alex Scott after he turned down a fresh contract proposal from Bournemouth. The 22-year-old former England Under 21s star has been heavily linked with a switch to Old Trafford this summer, to help fill the void in midfield.
The Cherries have Scott secured on a deal until 2028 and have attempted to prolong his stay. Nevertheless, according to Sky Sports, he is presently unwilling to accept those terms, with his representatives having declined a new agreement. A release clause for Scott has been mentioned, but with nothing finalised, Scott is anticipated to cost any suitors approximately £60m.
United's interest in the midfielder comes as Carrick is reportedly seeking a third addition to the midfield. Scott appears to be the firm option, alongside AS Roma's French World Cup star, Manu Kone, 25. Scott's club colleague, American midfielder Tyler Adams, 27, has also been associated with a transfer to Old Trafford. Arsenal have shown interest in Scott as well, but Newcastle United's captain Bruno Guimaraes appears to be their main midfield target.
