Juventus open Joshua Zirkzee talks as Manchester United accept exit

Juventus have opened negotiations with Manchester United over the signing of Joshua Zirkzee as the Serie A giants step up their efforts to bring the Dutch forward back to Italy.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, talks between the two clubs are now underway after Zirkzee's representatives gave Juventus the green light to pursue a deal.

Manchester United are reportedly willing to sanction the striker's departure, although the structure of the transfer remains a key point of negotiation.

New Juventus technical director Frederic Massara is leading the move after previously attempting to sign Zirkzee during his time at Roma.

The Dutch international is understood to be open to returning to Serie A after struggling to establish himself as a regular starter at Old Trafford.

Since arriving from Bologna in 2024, Zirkzee has made 75 appearances for Manchester United but featured for just 645 minutes last season.

Juventus believe a return to Italy could help the striker rediscover the form that earned him his move to the Premier League.

Manchester United reportedly value Zirkzee at between €35 million and €40 million.

The Red Devils are willing to consider a loan with an obligation to buy, giving Juventus a pathway to complete the transfer without paying the full fee immediately.

However, the Italian club would prefer a loan containing either an option to buy or a conditional obligation, meaning discussions remain ongoing.

The two clubs are expected to continue negotiations over the coming days in an attempt to bridge the gap.

Earlier this week, reports claimed Zirkzee's agent, Kia Joorabchian, had been working to facilitate a return to Serie A.

Juventus and Como both held discussions with the influential representative, but the Turin club have now emerged as clear favourites to secure the striker's signature.

With the player also keen on returning to Italy, optimism is growing that an agreement can eventually be reached.

Juventus' decision to begin formal negotiations represents the strongest indication yet that Zirkzee's Manchester United career could be nearing its end. While the clubs must still agree on the transfer structure, the willingness of all parties to negotiate suggests a deal is becoming increasingly realistic.

Negotiations between Juventus and Manchester United are expected to continue over the coming days as both clubs attempt to compromise on the structure of the deal. If progress is made, Zirkzee could move closer to a return to Serie A before the transfer window closes.