Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly open to joining Juventus, which could help Manchester United make an attacking signing. The 25-year-old started United's first pre-season game last weekend against Wrexham but is likely to depart having played just 127 minutes of competitive football under Michael Carrick.
Multiple Serie A clubs interested
Finding a suitor for the versatile attacker has seemingly not been that difficult either, with multiple clubs in Serie A — where United bought him from — interested in signing him. Juventus are the Italian club undoubtedly leading the race, despite their main focus being Randal Kolo Muani. However, talks with Paris Saint-Germain over Kolo Muani have stalled, which resulted in Juve recently making contact to understand if Zirkzee would be open to a move.
La Gazzetta Dello Sport are now reporting that he has given an initial 'yes' to the idea of joining Juventus and is enticed by the prospect of returning to Italy. Their report has stated that a loan move is the preference for Luciano Spalletti's side, with another attempt at signing Kolo Muani to be made.
United's preference for permanent deal
United would likely prefer the permanent departure of Zirkzee in order to reinvest any funds acquired back into the squad and potentially on a replacement, with the possibility of a deal including an obligation to buy. Zirkzee wanted to leave in January but was denied that opportunity by United. Had it been sanctioned, Benjamin Sesko would have been the only recognised fit centre-forward, but he is in the process of recovering from a shin injury.
While the focus seemingly remains on midfield, United are also looking into the striker market and considering their options. The most likely outcome seems to be an experienced attacker to arrive, who perhaps may not be the most glamorous signing but one that is familiar with the Premier League.
Other transfer targets
Karl Darlow, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos have officially joined the club already, with a third midfield signing expected. AS Roma's Manu Kone and Alex Scott of Bournemouth appear to be two names at the top of United's shortlist, but the duo have plenty of interest from elsewhere. Chelsea even saw a £64 million offer for Scott turned down.
A new signing at left wing is also being considered, with Crysencio Summerville and Iliman Ndiaye linked, though the former looks set to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, who have had a bid accepted by West Ham. Marcus Rashford's future has a role to play in any potential frontline addition, but Zirkzee being sold could help towards the signing of a forward that can play as a striker.
