Joshua Zirkzee open to January Italy return as Manchester United set €35m price

Joshua Zirkzee could leave Manchester United in January, with the striker reportedly more receptive to returning to Serie A after rejecting Fiorentina during the summer transfer window.

The Netherlands international has repeatedly been linked with a return to Italy during his time at Old Trafford, having previously enjoyed success in Serie A.

According to Calciomercato, Manchester United could sanction a winter departure for around €35million, although any deal may initially be structured as a loan.

Zirkzee's position could also be different this time after he reportedly favoured Juventus over Fiorentina during the summer.

Fiorentina were prepared to meet Manchester United's demands for Zirkzee during the previous window, according to the Italian report.

The obstacle was instead the player.

Zirkzee turned down the opportunity because he preferred the prospect of joining Juventus, where Ricky Massara is now working after previously pursuing the forward while sporting director at Roma.

Juventus were unable to match United's valuation, however, ensuring Zirkzee remained at Old Trafford.

The situation followed previous Italian interest in the Dutchman. AC Milan had been close to signing him before his move to Manchester United but ultimately withdrew amid disagreement over agent commission.

Roma also explored a deal in January, but United's demands prevented that interest from developing into a transfer.

Calciomercato reports that around €35m could be enough for United to approve Zirkzee's departure during the winter window.

A loan arrangement may be used initially, potentially providing a route towards a permanent transfer.

That valuation is significant because Fiorentina were reportedly willing to reach the required figure during the summer. The question ahead of January will be whether they, Juventus or another Serie A club revive their interest.

Zirkzee is also said to be more willing to consider a move than he was during the previous window.

His recent performances for the Netherlands have provided encouragement and could help generate further interest before January.

At 25, Zirkzee is entering a stage of his career where consistent first-team football will be particularly important.

Returning to the Netherlands set-up has given him another reason to seek regular minutes at club level, while Italy represents familiar territory following his previous Serie A experience.

There is currently no indication in the report that a January agreement has been reached with any club.

Instead, the situation appears considerably more open than it was during the summer. Manchester United reportedly have a price at which they are prepared to negotiate, while Zirkzee is now more receptive to an Italian return.

That combination could finally provide the conditions for his Old Trafford exit.

Interest from Italy will be worth monitoring as January approaches. Fiorentina have already demonstrated a willingness to meet United's valuation, while Zirkzee's previous preference for Juventus could become relevant again if the Turin club can construct an affordable deal. For now, no agreement has been reported, but the conditions for a winter departure appear to be taking shape.