Juventus' New Target: Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee's future could return to Italy after failing to live up to expectations at Manchester United. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have reached an agreement in principle with the 25-year-old Dutch forward, who is said to be excited by the prospect of returning to the Serie A where he previously thrived. According to the report, having found limited playing time under head coach Michael Carrick, Zirkzee is keen to return to Italy.

According to the report, due to financial constraints, Juventus' ideal scenario is a loan deal without a mandatory purchase option, similar to the structure that saw Marcus Rashford move to Barcelona last season. Having signed Randal Kolo Muani from PSG for €38 million plus €12 million in bonuses, the Italian giants are said to have limited remaining transfer budget following that investment. Sporting director Ricky Massara is said to be personally driving the process, working on the finer contractual details.

It's recalled that Zirkzee, who joined Manchester United from Bologna in the summer of 2024 for £36.5 million (reported as €42.5 million by Italian sources) under Erik ten Hag, has failed to deliver consistent performances for United. It's noted that Massara had previously shown interest in the player during his time at Roma, with Juventus viewing this transfer as an opportunity not to be missed. The deal's completion is said to hinge on resolving the uncertain future of Canadian forward Jonathan David in Turin.

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
Image: United In Focus