Manchester United summer signing Joshua Zirkzee open to January exit

According to a rumour, Joshua Zirkzee plans to depart Manchester United and rejoin Thiago Motta, the manager of Juventus.

United spent £36.5 million to sign the highly regarded Zirkzee in the summer after witnessing him score 12 goals and provide seven assists under Motta at Bologna the season before. However, they haven't witnessed a comparable performance from the Dutchman this season.

In 18 games across all competitions, Zirkzee has only scored once. Even his late substitution in the 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town drew criticism from new head coach Ruben Amorim.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Zirkzee's awful start to life in England has made him yearn for a return to Italy and, more importantly, a reunion with Motta.

Zirkzee is reportedly anxious for Juventus to act and express interest in a January transfer because he believes his situation won't improve under Amorim.

Juventus' director, Cristiano Giuntoli, is keen to sign Zirkzee but will only look at an initial loan deal, which United has not yet indicated that it wants to negotiate.

In an attempt to raise money for a January transfer splurge, Giuntoli was rumoured to have discussed finding buyers for Douglas Luiz and Nicolo Fagioli with United and Manchester City officials. Meanwhile, Motta declined to comment on Juventus’ winter market plans during a recent press conference.

With just four goals from Rasmus Hojlund, Zirkzee, and Marcus Rashford this season, Manchester United has struggled mightily to score in the Premier League.

Zirkzee in particular has drawn a lot of criticism since joining from Serie A team Bologna during the summer transfer window.

Only Southampton, Crystal Palace, and Everton have scored fewer goals than Manchester United this season going into the Everton game. Additionally, there have been rumors that Zirkzee would leave in January if it allows them to get a new player.

Cover Credits - Sky Sports