Euro heavyweights lining up shock loan-with-obligation move for 24-yo star ready to call it quits at United – report

Juventus are said to be leading the race for Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the summer transfer window, with a fresh report from Italy indicating details of their expected offer. Zirkzee facing transfer uncertainty Zirkzee has struggled for regular minutes this season, leading to uncertainty over his future at Old Trafford. United’s early exit from the Carabao Cup and absence from European competitions this campaign have left the Dutchman with very few opportunities for playing time. Ruben Amorim often used Zirkzee from the bench, and this trend has so far continued under interim boss Michael Carrick. Zirkzee missed the victories over Manchester City and Arsenal with a knock, but was an unused substitute in the subsequent win against Fulham. He was afforded just three minutes and eight minutes vs. Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham respectively. Before Amorim’s dismissal, it seemed Zirkzee was very likely to depart during the January window, but Carrick’s arrival may have prompted him to shelve his plans. Unless his situation drastically changes, there is every chance that his future will be a key talking point in the summer. According to Calciomercato, there are several clubs keeping tabs on the 24-year-old’s situation, but Juventus are leading the pack for his signature. Zirkzee transfer update Calciomercato say that Zirkzee’s fate “appears far from England”, with the player “ready to return” to Italy, where he played the best football of his career. Juventus are ready to grant his wish, especially because strikers Dusan Vlahovic and Lois Openda seem destined to exit Turin at the end of the season. There are also question marks over Jonathan David, who has not lit up the world since joining the Old Lady last summer. Calciomercato add, “Zirkzee’s purchase could come on loan with an obligation to buy set at around €30 million.” It is currently unclear whether United would be open to sanctioning Zirkzee’s exit on loan, despite the inclusion of an obligation to make the transfer a permanent one. With the Red Devils gearing up for a busy window, they are likely to prioritise straight cash deals that would allow them to reinvest in fresh recruits. 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 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!