United reach huge transfer decision on star forward as European giants ramp up January chase – report

Manchester United have reportedly made a January transfer decision on Joshua Zirkzee, with AS Roma looking to tie up a deal for the player. Zirkzee attracting interest Zirkzee is facing an uncertain future at United and an exit in the coming weeks is firmly on the cards. Following the summer signings of Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo, Zirkzee has struggled for regular first-team minutes. With his sights set on Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands World Cup squad, a bench role is far from ideal. While injuries to Sesko and Cunha afforded Zirkzee a starting role from late November through early December, the pair’s return has since pushed him back to the fringes. He was afforded only 17 minutes of action as United fell to a 2-1 loss at the hands of Aston Villa on Sunday. Roma continue to be mentioned as the club that holds the strongest interest in the Dutch striker, but AC Milan are also circling. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Leeds United, West Ham and Everton are also keeping tabs on Zirkzee’s situation. For all the apparent interest in Zirkzee and his own receptiveness to a transfer, a new report has suggested that United have no intention of letting him go. Zirkzee update According to the Manchester Evening News, “Manchester United are unlikely to sanction a January departure for Joshua Zirkzee until their injury crisis has eased or key players have returned from the Africa Cup of Nations.” In terms of Roma advancing on a deal for the 24-year-old, MEN note, “A deal isn’t thought to be as advanced as reports in Italy have suggested over the previous 24 hours, but the Serie A giants are keen to sign Zirkzee during the window as they explore a loan or permanent deal.” “Even if a move was to accelerate, United are reluctant to lose an attacking option at a point when their resources are so stretched.” Tyrone Marshall adds that United are pursuing Bournemouth attacker Antoine Semenyo. Should the Red Devils successfully land the Ghanian, this may open the door to a Zirkzee departure. Featured image Matt McNulty 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!