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Despite obvious gaps in midfield, Manchester United opted to focus on strengthening their attack last summer.
Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko came in for big money, and as a result, Joshua Zirkzee’s minutes dropped dramatically.
It wasn’t until matchweek 12 that the Dutchman finally earned a Premier League start, but the 24-year-old has not made the starting XI once since the second week of December.
With the World Cup approaching at the end of the season, the former Bologna star was keen to break through and the only way to achieve that was to play regularly at club level.
Joshua Zirkzee does not suit United’s needs
However, with his opportunities expected to remain limited under Ruben Amorim, the Dutch international was eyeing a return to Italy, with AS Roma interested.
However, the departure of the Portuguese tactician and subsequent arrival of Michael Carrick saw United block his exit.
However, injury has prevented him from earning any minutes under the caretaker head coach and he remains keen to leave Old Trafford.
There is interest from the Premier League, but Serie A football appeals more to the former Bayern Munich great and Juventus were reportedly interested.
Juventus gets a response
However, according to Tuttosportthe Red Devils will not allow their number 11 to jump ship mid-season.
Interestingly, Bianconeri boss Luciano Spalletti is also not a big fan of the versatile ace and is considering a different profile for Juve’s attack.
“He will most likely stay in England, where Zirkzee doesn’t seem likely to leave anytime soon: Manchester United have halted transfers, and even Juventus’ interest hasn’t changed things.
“In any case, he would not have met the demands of Spalletti, who is looking for strength, hunger and, above all, physical qualities that can help him at specific moments in the match.”
Any additions to the offense will depend on the future of Joshua Zirkzee. If he leaves permanently, United will only then look for an alternative in the January market.
Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images
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