CL giants have received a firm response in their bid to sign United attacker – report

Despite obvious midfield gaps, Manchester United chose to focus on strengthening their attack last summer. In came Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko for big money, and as a result, Joshua Zirkzee’s minutes decreased dramatically. It was not until gameweek 12 that the Dutchman finally earned a Premier League start, but since the second week of December, the 24-year-old has not made the starting XI even once. With the World Cup coming up at the end of the season, the former Bologna ace was keen to make the cut and the only way for that to happen was by playing regularly at club level. Joshua Zirkzee does not fit United’s needs However, with his chances expected to remain limited under Ruben Amorim, the Netherlands international was eyeing a return to Italy, with AS Roma interested. However, the Portuguese tactician’s departure and Michael Carrick’s subsequent arrival meant United blocked his exit. An injury, however, has meant he is yet to earn any minutes under the caretaker head coach, and he remains keen to leave Old Trafford. There is interest from within the Premier League, but Serie A football appeals more to the former Bayern Munich ace and Juventus were reportedly interested. Juventus receive response However, as per Tuttosport, the Red Devils will not allow their No.11 to jump ship midway through the season. Interestingly, Bianconeri boss Luciano Spalletti is also not a big fan of the versatile ace and is eyeing a different profile for Juve’s attack. “He will most likely remain in England, where Zirkzee doesn’t appear to be leaving for now: Manchester United has put a freeze on transfers, and not even Juventus’ interest has changed matters. “Regardless, he wouldn’t have met Spalletti’s requirements, who is looking for strength, hunger, and, even more so, physical qualities that can help him in specific moments of the match.” Any addition to the attack will depend on the future of Joshua Zirkzee. Should he depart permanently, only then will United pursue an alternative in the January market. Feature 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25