Manchester United are doing everything to retain Dutch striker of Nigerian descent Joshua Zirkzee beyond the January transfer window amid strong interest from Italian giants Juventus.
The Dutch striker, born in 2001, is still highly rated by the Bianconeri hierarchy, particularly for his technical qualities and familiarity with Serie A, gained during his time at Bologna.
Zirkzee’s profile fits Juventus’ search for a forward capable of adapting quickly to Italian football.
According to Sportmediaset, talks have been far from smooth due to the conditions set by Manchester United. The Premier League club are reportedly demanding a fee of no less than 30 million euros and are unwilling to entertain any loan arrangements, whether straight loans or deals that include an option to buy.
United are said to be pushing for a permanent transfer or, at a minimum, firm financial guarantees upfront.
The club is keen to avoid a situation in which Zirkzee could return to Old Trafford at the end of the season without clarity over his future.
Juventus continue to monitor the situation closely, but unless there is a shift in United’s position, the potential deal remains complicated.
Zirkzee has featured 16 times this season, starting only four matches and scoring two goals, figures that underline both his limited role and the uncertainty surrounding his future.
