1
Premier League newcomers Sunderland are reportedly considering the possibility of signing Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee on loan.
Zirkzee is in high demand
Zirkzee is attracting a lot of interest, both from England and abroad, amid increasing uncertainty over his future at United.
He has struggled for game time so far this season, playing just 82 minutes of top-flight action. Zirkzee remains a positive influence in the dressing room but is believed to be growing increasingly desperate over his situation at the club ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
He is keen to secure a place in Ronald Koeman’s plans ahead of the tournament, making his peripheral status at United a major problem.
Although United have no desire to sack the Dutchman, clubs are still lining up in case the Red Devils make a U-turn. Zirkzee continues to be linked with several suitors, including West Ham, Everton, Brighton and Hove Albion, Sevilla, AS Roma and Juventus.
A report by The Peoples Person stated that Zirkzee prefers to return to Italy.
Now TEAMtalk reveal that Sunderland have become the latest club to compete for the 24-year-old.
Sunderland want Zirkzee
TEAMtalk also claim that United are willing to sanction Zirkzee’s departure, with a potential replacement already lined up.
According to the news channel, Manchester United are willing to let Joshua Zirkzee leave in January, but they have placed strict conditions on any departure, while we can clarify ties with Dusan Vlahovic amid claims that the Red Devils are planning to bring in the Juventus striker as a replacement.
The report states that West Ham are in pole position for Zirkzee, but Everton and Aston Villa are also keeping a close eye on the situation.
Meanwhile, Sunderland have “announced that they would consider a possible loan deal for the player”.
TEAMtalk added: “United have indicated they are prepared to sanction his departure, although the message is clear to his suitors: a permanent sale below €40m will not be sanctioned, but a loan – with or without an option to buy – appears to be their preferred route, hoping this can generate summer interest and lead to their asking price being met.”
Ruben Amorim’s side have been offered Vlahovic, but the Serbian is not a top target for the club. Juventus is also hopeful that Vlahovic will stay in Turin.
Sunderland is enjoying a dream return to the Premier League. The Black Cats currently sit fourth in the table, with an impressive 18 points.
They have won five, drawn three and lost two of their first ten games.
Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images
The Peoples Person has been one of Man United’s most important news sites for over ten years. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
#Joshua #Zirkzee #Sunderland #eyeing #bold #January #loan #star #Man #United #News #Transfer #News #Peoples #Person