United in “advanced talks” to sign elite forward and send struggling 23-yo the other way

Manchester United and Juventus are in talks over a deal that would see Joshua Zirkzee and Dusan Vlahovic swap clubs, as per Fichajes.

United’s poor showing going forward has led to the Red Devils being linked with a number of seasoned strikers, including Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres.

However, Ineos faces the daunting task of strengthening Amorim’s squad and at the same time ensuring United comply with financial fair play or profit and sustainability rules.

Following another summer of heavy spending, which saw the Mancunians sign the likes of Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt, the club must sell players before bringing in new stars.

Amid this headache, a report in Spain has suggested that Juve may help United find their ideal attacker without any significant outlay.

Manchester United want to swap Joshua Zirkzee with Dusan Vlahovic

According to Fichajes, United and Juventus could be “the protagonists of one of the most eye-catching moves of the winter transfer market” as both sides are in “advanced talks to close an operation” that would see Zirkzee return to Turin and Vlahovic move to Manchester.

United admire the Serbian striker’s profile, including his physicality and movement in and around the penalty area. He is considered “an immediate solution” to improve Amorim’s attack.

Vlahovic, who has proved his goalscoring quality at both Fiorentina and Juventus, has 12 goals to his name across all competitions this season. However, his long-term future at the club remains uncertain as his contract is due to expire in the summer of 2026.

The Old Lady, meanwhile, have high hopes for Zirkzee’s potential and supposedly see him as a good fit for their long-term project.

The 23-year-old Dutchman has found it hard to show his talents in England, managing just four goals in all competitions. However, he made plenty of headlines with his link up play and technical ability under Thiago Motta at Bologna. Motta is now the head coach at Juventus.

The Spanish outlet add that negotiations between both clubs appear to be “well underway” and there is a willingness to complete the swap deal. It is believed an agreement “could be finalised in the coming weeks.”

The idea of getting one of the best strikers in Europe in exchange for a struggling youngster is certainly appealing, as far as United fans are concerned. Still, considering Fichajes’ reputation, it is best to take the claim with a pinch of salt!