Manchester United is approaching January while trying to balance team rebuilding with the need for immediate results.
Ruben Amorim’s forward line has struggled to score in critical moments, making squad management as important as strategy.
This challenge is intensified with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo both participating in AFCON.
Amad scored for Ivory Coast against Cameroon and Mozambique, highlighting the impact of his absence.
On a different note, Joshua Zirkzee’s situation is shifting to a practical decision rather than just a football one.
The Dutch player joined from Bologna in summer 2024, with United offering him a long-term contract.
Now, Zirkzee seems open to an early change, and a return to Serie A fits the timing well.
AS Roma is actively pursuing him, with Gian Piero Gasperini set to lead their next chapter.
Fabrizio Romano has reported ongoing discussions, noting that Zirkzee is interested in getting regular playing time.
The agreement being talked about is a loan with a future buy obligation.
Romano described the current situation regarding Zirkzee’s potential move to Roma: “Negotiations between Manchester United and Roma for Joshua Zirkzee continue. Zirkzee is prepared to go to Roma.”
He added, “Zirkzee is enthusiastic about joining Roma and wants to be a regular starter under Gian Piero Gasperini.
“United will only allow Zirkzee to leave if they can find a replacement.”
“Manchester United has started looking for an attacking player again after they were unable to close a deal for Antoine Semenyo.”
“They are back in the market for an attacker in case Zirkzee departs for Roma.”
This last point is crucial. United is willing to negotiate, but only if a replacement is secured first.
This aligns with the team’s current needs, as United’s attack is already limited this month.
Letting Zirkzee go without a substitute would leave Amorim with even fewer options, especially during AFCON.
Roma’s offer is largely characterized as a loan with a conditional obligation to buy, meaning talks are focused on timing and guarantees.
The next step seems clear. If United can find a trustworthy attacker, Zirkzee’s departure will be easier to agree on. Otherwise, the move might need to wait.
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