Joshua Zirkzee could be sold by Manchester United as part of a swap proposed by a major European club.
Manchester United are already in talks over a January swap deal that could see Joshua Zirkzee return to Serie A after a nightmarish spell.
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Must be able to play a lot of football to not miss the World Cup
Zirkzee has regularly been linked with a departure from United, after struggling to establish himself in the starting line-up since signing from Serie A club Bologna for £36 million in 2024.
He surprisingly stayed at Manchester United after the summer transfer window, after struggling for a long time to get regular game time under manager Ruben Amorim.
Zirkzee has only made five appearances in all competitions this season, but is still looking for his first start, having accumulated just 82 minutes of playing time.
Last month, it was reported that the Dutchman had become unhappy with his position in the squad and is looking to leave the club when the January window opens.
West Ham were discussed as a possible destination, but Roma have also been mentioned as interested in Zirkzee, with a new report focusing on a potential swap.
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Rome offers player return
With Zirkzee’s need for regular game time to secure a place in the Netherlands’ squad for the 2026 World Cup, Roma seem to want to bring him to the Italian capital in January.
However, according to Radio Lo Sport, via Sport Witness, the Giallo Red club is prepared to send one of its players in the opposite direction.
Ukrainian striker Artem Dovbyk finds himself in a similar situation to Zirkzee, with two goals and two assists in 13 appearances for Roma, who are fourth in Serie A after 10 rounds.
He signed for Roma in 2024, on the back of an excellent season with Girona, where he scored an impressive 24 goals and secured qualification for the Champions League.
Dovbyk netted 17 times in his debut season for Roma, but has not quite maintained that form this season.
Man United’s stance on Dovbyk
Roma have offered United the option to sign him and give them an additional attacking option, but the claim is that the Red Devils are not interested.
“It’s not a lot of money, even for the next transfer window,” said journalist Enrico Camelio.
“One name that has been circulating is Zirkzee. He would be an incredible upgrade. Manchester United do not want Dovbyk, and thus there will be no trade. Let’s wait and see.”
Wife is a more likely target
However, it is reported that United are “well acquainted” with Roma midfielder Manu Koné and believe he could be a perfect match for the type of player they want in their team.
United are working on plans for 2026, and Koné, who plays in a system similar to Amorim’s at Roma, is said to be a top target for the club.
