Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is facing a critical decision in the upcoming January transfer window, with the future of striker Joshua Zirkzee under scrutiny. This comes as the club's latest teenage signing, Cristian Orozco, has spoken publicly about his "dream" move after visiting Manchester.
Amorim's Striker Conundrum Ahead of AFCON
Roma have tabled an official loan offer with an obligation to buy for Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee, according to widespread reports. The 24-year-old came on as a substitute during United's recent 1-0 Boxing Day victory over Newcastle United but found it difficult to make a significant impact as the team protected their narrow lead.
While Zirkzee does not appear to be part of Amorim's long-term vision at Old Trafford, the Portuguese coach must now decide if he can afford to let the player depart as early as next month. The dilemma is compounded by the imminent Africa Cup of Nations, which will see key attacking options Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon) and Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast) leave the club.
Both African nations won their opening group games and are scheduled to face each other this Sunday. Should either team progress deep into the tournament, Mbeumo and Amad could be unavailable for United until late January, leaving Amorim potentially short of forward options.
United officials are understood to be carefully considering their choices before making a final decision on Zirkzee's future. The club's improved form, having steadied after a rocky start to the season, means Amorim will be reluctant to weaken his squad mid-season without assurance of adequate cover.
New Signing Orozco Fulfils 'Childhood Dream'
In other news, incoming Manchester United signing Cristian Orozco has described his impending move as a dream come true. The 17-year-old Colombian midfielder, who captains his country's under-17 side, is set to formally join the club when he turns 18 in July 2026.
Orozco, who currently plays for Fortaleza CEIF in his homeland, recently travelled to Manchester to view the club's facilities and the city itself. He led Colombia to the final of the South American U17 Championship in April, showcasing the talent that has attracted United's global scouting network.
"It went really well, to be honest," Orozco said of his visit. "I was looking around the city. Everything was beautiful. I was able to see the facilities, the stadium. I'm truly fulfilling a childhood dream. It was a wonderful experience."
The teenager highlighted his immediate focus is on adaptation, stating: "My expectation right now is to learn English a lot. I realised it’s very important. I want to arrive, learn, and adapt as quickly as possible." He added confidently, "I know that with my abilities, I can be key, with the strength and technique I have."
A Period of Transition at Old Trafford
The January window presents another moment of potential change for Manchester United, who are looking to end a challenging year positively. A win against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Tuesday would secure a valuable six points from the festive period, following the hard-fought victory over Newcastle.
Amorim's position appears more secure now than during the early-season struggles, with the team showing signs of progress compared to a year ago. However, the decisions made in the transfer market next month, starting with the Zirkzee situation, will be a significant test of the club's planning as they balance immediate squad needs with long-term strategy.
The pursuit of young talents like Diego Leon and Cristian Orozco signals a continued commitment to building for the future, even as the first-team squad requires careful management in the present.
