United star’s dream January move thrown into turmoil over two contentious transfer conditions – report

AS Roma have reportedly identified Tottenham Hotspur forward Mathys Tel as an alternative target if their efforts to capture Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee fail. Roma want Zirkzee Roma are believed to be exploring the possibility of signing Zirkzee on loan during the January transfer window. Zirkzee has struggled for first-team minutes under Ruben Amorim this season and there is a very good chance that he could leave as he eyes a spot in the Netherlands squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The likes of Everton and West Ham are interested in him but he has made it clear that Roma are his preferred transfer destination. It’s understood that Roma have already held preliminary talks with United regarding a potential deal. Gian Piero Gasperini is a big admirer of the forward and Zirkzee is also keen to work with the Italian coach, who wanted him while in charge at Atalanta. Gazzetta dello Sport have given an update on the situation, indicating that two key details of the transfer remain unresolved, and if those issues aren’t sorted out soon, Zirkzee’s proposed move to the Stadio Olimpico could fall through. Roma are prepared for this eventuality, hence they’ve lined up a swoop for Tel. Zirkzee to Roma update According to Gds, United are eager for any loan deal to include an option or obligation for Roma to buy Zirkzee at the end of the campaign. The 20-time English champions value Zirkzee at €35m, which is slightly less than the €41.5m they paid to sign him from Bologna. The second condition is that Roma want to cover only half of Zirkzee’s wages. United would ideally want his full salary to be covered by the Serie A giants. Roma want the issue to be resolved early in January. They have no desire to let talks drag on, which explains why they’re also looking at Tel. It remains to be seen whether an agreement can be found. For now, Zirkzee’s focus will be on breaking into the team. He now has a real opportunity to do so with Benjamin Sesko set to be sidelined for a few weeks with a knee injury. United are next in action next Tuesday when they host Everton. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!