Agent in talks for Joshua Zirkzee’s potential January move to Roma

Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Manchester United is increasingly uncertain as Italian giants AS Roma continue to push for his signature in the winter transfer market. Recent reports from Italy suggest that Roma sporting director Frederic Massara is leading talks with Zirkzee’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, as the Dutch striker seeks to secure a move away from Old Trafford.

The 24-year-old has struggled to make an impact this season, with his limited game time at United — just 354 minutes across nine appearances — leaving him frustrated. Ruben Amorim’s faith in the forward has been lacking, and Zirkzee is reportedly keen on finding a project where he can play a more prominent role, something that has been hard to come by at Manchester United this season.

Roma have now entered into direct negotiations, with Corriere della Sera reporting that Massara has gained the approval of the Giallorossi’s owners to pursue the Dutchman. Negotiations are said to be “ongoing and very concrete”, with a deal looking likely to materialise in the latter stages of the January window.

While Roma have taken the lead in negotiations, there is also interest from AC Milan, who are reportedly keeping tabs on Zirkzee’s situation. Milan’s manager, Massimiliano Allegri, has made it clear he prefers a physically dominant striker, and Zirkzee’s attributes align well with that requirement.

Despite Milan’s interest, Roma are currently seen as the favourites to sign the Netherlands international. Reports suggest that Roma’s loan move with an obligation to buy structure could be a deal-breaker for the player and his entourage. The final agreement, said to be worth around €35 million, would involve an initial loan fee followed by an obligation to buy, and it appears Zirkzee is leaning towards a move to the Italian capital.

From our view covering Zirkzee’s situation at Manchester United, it’s clear that a January move could be a win-win for both the player and the club. United, despite their investment in the Dutchman, appear unlikely to offer him the consistent first-team football he craves. Allowing him to move to a club where he can become a key figure would free up space for United to pursue other targets and strengthen their attack in the process.

For Zirkzee, a move to Roma — where he is likely to get more game time — would offer the perfect opportunity to reignite his career. Under the leadership of Gian Piero Gasperini and a more tailored role, Zirkzee could flourish in Italy, where Serie A’s tactical nature may suit his strengths better than the Premier League’s intensity.

As for Roma, this move could also strengthen their frontline, adding a dynamic presence to complement their established attacking options. It’s an exciting opportunity for all parties involved, and with Massara’s work behind the scenes progressing rapidly, the deal could be finalised as soon as the second half of January.

Zirkzee’s future will become clearer as January approaches, but his focus will remain on the pitch for now. Manchester United host Bournemouth on Monday, 18 December, and with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo likely heading off to AFCON, United will likely assess any potential moves involving Zirkzee closer to the end of the window. If he does depart for Roma, the Dutchman will look to make an immediate impact on the Serie A scene.

👉 irkUnited fans — would you consider letting Zirkzee leave in January, or should he be given more opportunities?