Desperate Roma pushing £36m move for Dutch-Nigerian striker Joshua Zirkzee

Roma are pushing hard to rescue Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee in a £36 million January move, with the Serie A club convinced they can revive his form after a difficult spell in England.

The Italian side see the deal as an opportunity to secure a striker who once flourished in their league and is now open to a return.

Zirkzee, who has Nigerian heritage, has endured a frustrating season under Ruben Amorim.

Despite making 56 appearances in all competitions, he has struggled for rhythm and consistency, and only ended a near year-long Premier League goal drought with a strike against Crystal Palace on Sunday.

The Dutchman joined United from Bologna last summer but has yet to replicate his Serie A impact.

His form at Bologna, where he thrived in a more fluid attacking system, remains a key reason Roma believe he can be restored to his best away from Old Trafford.

Their long-standing admiration has accelerated as Amorim prepares to welcome injured forwards back into contention, limiting Zirkzee’s opportunities further.

According to reports from the Sunday Mirror and Manchester Evening News, Roma are deliberating between a straight £36 million purchase and a loan with an obligation to buy, triggered by Champions League qualification.

That structure would allow the club to navigate financial constraints while securing priority reinforcements.

Zirkzee is said to be receptive to an early exit, keen to relocate to a league where his technical qualities previously thrived. His Premier League output has remained modest, with only four goals in 37 appearances, reinforcing concerns about his long-term suitability under Amorim.

Roma’s offer is expected to test United’s resolve, particularly with the forward appearing increasingly unlikely to claim a significant role once Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko return from injury.