Serie A heavyweights Juventus have reportedly added Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee to their list of targets for the January transfer window.
In his recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Bianconeri sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli silently confirmed the club’s interest in the 23-year-old Dutchman.
“Zirkzee? It’s not appropriate to mention names,” he said. “But we are keeping an eye on any interesting opportunities.”
Man Utd paid Bologna £36.5 million to bring the former Bayern Munich starlet to Old Trafford last summer, largely thanks to Erik ten Hag’s insistence.
Not suited for Premier League
Zirkzee exploded onto the big stage at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara last term, helping Thiago Motta’s side secure a historic Champions League qualification.
However, even during his rise to prominence in Serie A, it was clear that Zirkzee lacked pace and energy, two crucial components for success in the Premier League.
With all due respect to his technical and tactical prowess, sometimes it feels like he needs ages to turn with the ball, not to mention his inability to beat his opponents one-on-one.
In all fairness, Man Utd’s catastrophic current state is hardly an environment for an up-and-comer to build confidence, let alone thrive.
Win-win deal
Ruben Amorim has already informed the Red Devils of his ambition to reunite with his former Sporting CP pupil, Viktor Gyokeres, at the Theatre of Dreams.
One of Europe’s most lethal goalscorers won’t come cheap. In fact, United would probably have to spend a small fortune to lure the Swede away from Lisbon.
Zirkzee’s departure would fill the club’s coffers. At the very least, Man Utd can recoup their summer investment.
Given the Dutch star’s form, letting him stay would likely only decrease his market value.
On the other hand, Juventus would finally sign a dependable alternative for Dusan Vlahovic.
Motta is familiar with Zirkzee’s qualities, considering he launched him to stardom during their time in Emilia-Romagna.
On that basis, the 23-year-old’s winter return to Serie A makes perfect sense.
