Euro giants make contact for United “baller” as INEOS hatches creative plan to seal Old Trafford exit – report

Juventus have reportedly ramped up their interest in Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee, who is facing an uncertain future. Exit on the cards Zirkzee featured in United’s pre-season clash against Wrexham but there remains a good chance that he will leave before the close of the summer transfer window. During the 2025/26 season, he struggled for playing time under both Ruben Amorim and his successor, Michael Carrick. Both managers demonstrated a clear preference for Benjamin Sesko. Zirkzee made 24 Premier League appearances. Only five of these were starts. He contributed two goals and one assist. His limited playing time saw him miss out on a place in the Netherlands’ World Cup squad. He is said to be keen on first-team minutes, which explains the noise regarding a potential return to Italy. The Dutchman has been linked to the likes of AC Milan, Juventus, Atalanta and AS Roma. Now, Gazzetta report that Juventus have made enquiries for Zirkzee as their deal for Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani stalls. Zirkzee transfer update Gazzetta claim that Zirkee is viewed as an ideal alternative to Kolo Muani. Juventus and PSG are still apart in their valuation of the French striker, prompting the Serie A giants to make contingency plans. Juventus recently enquired about Zirkzee’s availability and the conditions of getting a deal over the line. While Kolo Muani remains the dream target, the Turin outfit will pull the trigger if they feel that an agreement with PSG cannot be struck. Gazzetta report that United want €35–40m for Zirkzee, described as a “baller” by Lee Sharpe and are even open to a “creative formula.” Another factor that makes Zirkzee an attractive option is his €4m salary, which is lower than what Kolo Muani would command. This figure is within reach for Juventus. It’s understood that this is not the first time Juventus have tried to snap up Zirkzee. They launched another similar attempt in the summer of 2024 but it did not materialise. If Zirkzee leaves, United will almost certainly be forced to dip into the market for a replacement. Feature image Molly Darlington 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!