Roma’s significant bid for Joshua Zirkzee receives quick response from United – report

Manchester United have reportedly issued a clear response after AS Roma lodged a January loan bid for striker Joshua Zirkzee. Roma interested in Zirkzee Zirkzee has seen a significant uptick in minutes in recent weeks, largely due to injuries to Benjamin Šeško and Matheus Cunha. The Dutchman started United’s last three games against Everton, Crystal Palace and West Ham. He scored a superb goal vs. Palace but couldn’t do much as United were beaten by Palace and most recently, dropped points against West Ham at Old Trafford. Despite increased playing time, speculation over Zirkzee’s future refuses to completely go away. Ruben Amorim is believed to be keen on retaining Zirkzee beyond the winter transfer window but Roma are still keeping tabs on the forward. Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini is an avid admirer of Zirkzee, having unsuccessfully tried to snap him up while he was in charge at Atalanta. Reports have suggested that Zirkzee is keen on moving to Roma in an effort to secure a spot in Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands squad for the 2026 World Cup. A report covered by The Peoples claimed that Roma had tabled a bid for Zirkzee. The report noted that Roma proposed an initial loan deal with an option to buy that would turn into an obligation should they secure Champions League qualification. Corriere dello Sport have now given an update, indicating that this offer was rejected by United. United respond to Roma According to Corriere dello Sport [via SportWitness], United have made it known they’re not open to loan deals as they “want the money now.” Roma sporting director Frederic Massara remains in negotiations with United over a potential transfer but there is no guarantee that it will get over the line. United turned down Roma’s proposal. They want to cash in on the 24-year-old now rather than wait for the summer. The news outlet notes that while Zirkzee’s resolve to join the Giallorossi is “ironclad”, United will not give the Serie A giants any “freebies.” Roma are growing unsettled over the situation and are exploring alternative signings, including Corinthians striker Yuri Alberto. Featured image Justin Setterfield 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!