‘Started contacts’: Euro giants are acting fast in their pursuit of unhappy Man Utd star; INEOS open to sale

Stretty News

·3 January 2025

‘Started contacts’: Euro giants are acting fast in their pursuit of unhappy Man Utd star; INEOS open to sale

After enduring a truly torrid start to life at Manchester United, Joshua Zirkzee may look to return to familiar surroundings in the Serie A under a familiar face.

Indeed, Juventus are said to be acting on their longstanding interest in the forward now that the window is finally open for business. Trusted Italian reporter Gianluca Di Marzio has today confirmed that the European giants have ‘started contacts’ with Zirkzee’s entourage in hopes of getting a deal over the line sooner rather than later.

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The prospective move would see Zirkee join another new club but reunite with ex-Bologna coach Thiago Motta, who’s been keen to sign his former protegee since taking the reins in Turin this season – even amidst the 23-year-old’s stagnant form, which has seen him register four goals in 27 appearances across all competitions.

Why Zirkzee may decide to part ways with United prematurely

(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

His last outing in red marked perhaps the lowest point of his United career thus far. After struggling to make an impact during Monday’s clash vs Newcastle United, Zirkzee was withdrawn in the 33rd minute and replaced by Kobbie Mainoo, being childishly jeered off by supporters in attendance at Old Trafford as he did so.

He proceeded to grab his coat and head straight down the tunnel before returning minutes later and cutting a subdued figure on the bench for the remainder of the game.

In terms of the proposal Juventus are submitting, there’s still some work to be done if an agreement is to come to fruition, as United will not accept any offer that does not see them benefit financially.

The Old Lady were initially hoping to take Zirkzee on a half-season loan, though INEOS’ transfer chiefs have since made it clear that they will only sanction his exit permanently or on a temporary basis if a buy clause is included in the terms.

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‘Started contacts’: Euro giants are acting fast in their pursuit of unhappy Man Utd star; INEOS open to sale | OneFootball