What Zirkzee really feels about leaving United for direct rivals as Everton and West Ham eye winter deal – report

Joshua Zirkzee is keen on leaving Manchester United in a bid to earn a spot in the Netherlands’ World Cup squad. At United, the Dutchman has not seen much game time, and that lack of minutes has cost him national team call-ups. It is claimed that he believes he can convince Ronald Koeman to recall him to the national team setup if he can play regularly and show his worth in the second half of the season. While Zirkzee is eager to leave United this winter, Ruben Amorim and the club are reluctant to let him go. However, even if they are unwilling, the player’s desire, coupled with growing interest from suitors already making enquiries, could yet see United give in to the transfer pressure. Interest brewing Premier League sides West Ham United and Everton are reportedly interested in the striker. Sevilla are also keen, viewing him as a perfect fit for their project. Meanwhile, in Serie A, where Zirkzee previously impressed with Bologna, both AC Milan and AS Roma are reportedly interested in him. Likely destination Speaking on Roma’s interest, Italian transfer insider Matteo Moretto has hinted at where United’s number 11 would prefer to play next. He said via Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube: “Surely the profile that everyone (at Roma) would agree on is that of Joshua Zirkzee, but United have not yet made a decision as far as Zirkzee is concerned. “Zirkzee himself has many proposals, [but] he would prefer to return to Serie A, though we are still in the initial evaluation phase.” From those claims, it is clear that the Zirkzee transfer race is shaping up between AS Roma, AC Milan, and any other Italian club that joins the chase: a Serie A affair. Everton, West Ham, and Sevilla may be entering the race at a disadvantage. Zirkzee leaving would be a big loss A maverick in his own right, it is frustrating that the former Bayern Munich striker has not had the clear opportunities to reach the heights expected of him when he signed for United. Fans adore him, and his departure would certainly leave many frustrated. Unfortunately, he has been one of the biggest casualties of United missing out on European football, which has meant fewer games and fewer chances to shine. Whether he leaves or stays remains to be seen. But with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad set to depart for AFCON between December and January, Zirkzee could yet get his chance to convince Ruben Amorim to use him more. He could still carve out a key role at United and may not need to leave after all. 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 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.