Unexpected PL club launches bold move for United star as January window looms – report

Leeds United have reportedly joined West Ham in launching an enquiry about a potential January transfer for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee. Zirkzee could leave in January Zirkzee has struggled for minutes this season following the summer acquisitions of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. A number of weeks ago, it emerged that Zirkzee is open to the idea of a January loan exit as he eyes a place in Ronald Koeman’s World Cup squad for the 2026 World Cup. He was afforded more playing time last month while Cunha and Sesko were sidelined with injuries. However, in the past two games, Zirkzee has been named on the bench by Ruben Amorim. He was on the pitch for just one minute plus added time as the Red Devils were held to a 4-4 draw by Bournemouth on Monday evening. It remains clear that at the moment, Zirkzee is primarily serving a back-up role. AS Roma have emerged as the strongest candidates to land the 24-year-old but they’re not the only club chasing him. West Ham also continue to be linked to Zirkzee, with Nuno Espirito Santo keen on attacking reinforcements to boost the Hammers’ bid to beat the drop. Now, Italian news outlet Il Messaggero claim that West Ham have made an enquiry for striker Joshua Zirkzee, but face competition from newly-promoted Leeds United, who have also registered their interest. Zirkzee transfer update According to Il Messaggero, Roma hope to persuade United to approve a loan move that includes a permanent option, triggered should the Serie A outfit qualify for the Champions League. Roma are currently in fourth place in the table, three points adrift of table leaders Inter Milan. It’s understood that Roma are aware of competition from West Ham and Leeds to snap up Zirkzee. The two Premier League teams have already asked about the conditions of getting a deal for the forward over the line. A positive thing for the Giallorossi is that Zirkzee is not enthused by the idea of joining either West Ham or Leeds and being involved in a relegation scrap. AC Milan are another party keeping close tabs on the situation and could pounce, despite not having the best relationship with Zirkzee’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, after negotiations with the Rossoneri fell through at the last minute in 2024. Featured image Julian Finney 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!