Manchester United are prepared to sanction the departure of Joshua Zirkzee to Roma in January, but only after the Africa Cup of Nations concludes, according to reports.
The Dutch striker, who joined for £36.5m from Bologna 18 months ago, has scored just four Premier League goals and has fallen out of favour under Ruben Amorim. Roma are leading the chase for the 24-year-old, with a loan deal featuring a mandatory buy option of €35m being discussed.
Zirkzee has held talks with Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini and is said to be enthusiastic about returning to Serie A. However, United are reluctant to rush the transfer until after AFCON, as they will be without Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo during the tournament, leaving attacking options thin.
Bruno Fernandes’ recent injury, which could sideline him for up to six matches, further complicates matters. While Zirkzee’s long-term future appears away from Old Trafford, Amorim stressed the club comes first, though he understands the player’s frustrations with World Cup ambitions.
United are not expected to sell Kobbie Mainoo, but they maintain interest in Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, who has a £65m release clause active for the first ten days of January.
