Earlier this week, there were reports of interest from AS Roma in Manchester United’s Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, and the picture emerging is one of a club willing to make a statement with this player as the symbol of intent.
Journalist Alessio Nardo told Calciomercato.it that Zirkzee is “a perfect player” for the Giallorossi. He described the 24‑year‑old as “a quality player … an atypical centre‑forward, but one who knows how to get his teammates playing well, he knows how to get the team playing well.”
Nardo added that while he believes Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is stronger, among the players realistically available in January Zirkzee stands out. “He’d do very well at Roma … it would be a statement of intent,” he said.
Why Joshua Zirkzee transfer makes sense
Zirkzee joined United from Bologna in the summer of 2024 for around £35‑40 million but he hasn’t yet locked down a regular starting spot under Ruben Amorim, with only one Premier League start so far this season and limited minutes off the bench. Meanwhile, the arrival of Benjamin Sesko and United’s broader attacking reshuffle have pushed Zirkzee further down the pecking order.
He is reportedly increasingly open to a move in January possibly a loan or permanent switch to get more game time ahead of the 2026 World Cup. United are reportedly issuing signals that they are prepared to move him on if a suitable offer arrives.
What Man United stand to gain with Zirkzee exit?
For AS Roma (or another buyer), Zirkzee represents more than just another forward. At 24, with a tall physical profile (1.93 m) and experience across Serie A and the Netherlands national team, he brings a blend of hold‑up ability, movement and finishing. His game also suits a system where the centre‑forward must link with runners, press defenders and work in a fluid front‑line.
From United’s perspective, moving Zirkzee in January would allow them to recoup part of their investment, free up an attacking slot, and reinvest in a profile more aligned with Amorim’s long‑term plan. The “statement signing” label fits two ways: it signals that Roma are serious about their ambitions and that United are prepared to reshape their squad rather than simply hold on to players.
Author Opinion
If AS Roma execute the move in January, acquiring Zirkzee would send a message: “we’re ambitious, we’re going for quality, we’re building forwards for now and the future.”
For Manchester United, allowing the move would say: “we’re flexible, we’re restructuring, we’re making moves that align with our vision.”
And in that sense, the description of Zirkzee as a “perfect player” for a statement move may just hold true.
Whether this deal actually materialises will depend on timing, valuation and United’s willingness to move on a player they invested significantly in just 15 months ago. But the signals are clear: January could be the moment everything pivots.
