United set to deviate from transfer strategy to land perfect replacement for “Modern-Day Berbatov” – report

Whether Joshua Zirkzee will still be at Manchester United next season remains a mystery. As Teamtalk note, even those calling the shots at Old Trafford still do not know if he will be a United player come the summer 2026 deadline. The UK outlet now hints at what the plan could look like concerning the Dutch striker. They report: “Manchester United will reassess Joshua Zirkzee’s future at the end of the season.” United’s plan if Zirkzee departs They go on to suggest that the outcome of those talks may well be the striker leaving. If that happens, INEOS are said to have two possible routes to replace him. “The current recruitment model favours young, high‑potential players who can develop and form the core of the side for years to come,” reveals Teamtalk. “However, sources suggest it is not out of the question that United could deviate from that strategy in this instance, as it is a good place to address their decreasing levels of experience.” Zirkzee’s fortunes may lie elsewhere United had high hopes when they beat European heavyweights to Zirkzee‘s signature, paying £36.5 million. Initially, he struggled with the Premier League’s pace, but, like Dimitar Berbatov, he sought to compensate with silk and intelligence, playing the game at his own tempo. With his unorthodox approach, often resembling a playmaker despite being a striker, he has shown glimpses of brilliance. Yet, for a striker, numbers matter. With only nine goals in 67 appearances, he has not been influential enough in United’s play. One could argue that his lack of game time, injuries, and spending long spells on the bench have held him back. Still, with exit talk refusing to fade, doubts over his impact, and his reported desire to move on, the likelihood is that he leaves this summer. As talented as he is, Zirkzee may well thrive elsewhere and become a major success. Comfort in United’s plan The reassuring part for United fans is that Ineos appear to have a plan in place. Strengthening the attack will be a priority if Zirkzee departs. Securing the right competition for Benjamin Sesko would be a wise move, pushing him to reach his potential and setting United’s frontline for years to come. Feature image Molly Darlington 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 Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.