United forward wants January exit, manager of top European club has already given his nod to transfer – report

Napoli boss Antonio Conte reportedly wants to raid Manchester United for Joshua Zirkzee.

The Naples-based outfit signed Scott McTominay from the Red Devils in a deal believed to be in the region of £25m during the summer transfer window.

After his struggles under Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, the Scottish midfielder has established himself as a key part of Conte’s title-challenging side, having scored four goals and registered two assists in 17 games across all competitions. 

Now, it is being suggested Napoli are exploring the possibility of handing a lifeline to another out-of-favour United star.

Napoli interested in Manchester United flop Joshua Zirkzee

According to Il Mattino (via Sport Witness), Napoli, who currently sit second in the Serie A table, are keen on reinforcing their squad in January and are eyeing a move for Zirkzee. 

Conte has reportedly already given the “green light” to the club’s hierarchy to sign the United number nine. It is understood the Italian tactician is a fan of the Dutchman and wanted to secure his signature in the summer before he moved to Old Trafford.

The ex-Bologna man has struggled to find his feet in England following his much-hyped switch.

After a long wait for his second United goal, the Netherlands international bagged a brace against Everton early this month.

However, that did little to change his situation at Old Trafford, as Ruben Amorim benched him against Arsenal and Nottingham Forest in the next two games.

The 23-year-old striker’s difficult situation in Manchester has led to suggestions of a return to Italy, and it is claimed Zirkzee would be interested in a transfer in January.

Juventus, who are led by his former manager Thiago Motta, have been heavily linked with the player, and now Napoli’s name has also been thrown into the mix.

Napoli’s frontline is currently spearheaded by ex-United striker Romelu Lukaku. It will be interesting to see how Zirkzee would challenge the Belgian for the starting spot under Conte.

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