Table of Contents

  1. Report on Zirkzee's Move to Roma
  2. Zirkzee's Performance at Manchester United
  3. Transfer Details and Statements

MANCHESTER UNITED's Joshua Zirkzee has reportedly reached an agreement to join Roma ahead of the January transfer window.

Zirkzee, 24, transferred to United from Bologna in 2024, but he has not yet met expectations.

Ethan Laird in a Manchester United jersey.Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee has reportedly agreed to join Roma Manchester United player Amad Diallo during the Premier League match against Newcastle United at Old Trafford.Zirkzee is seeking regular playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup

This situation has caused the striker to drop in the lineup, resulting in just one goal in 12 appearances this season.

The Mail reported that the lack of playing time has led the Netherlands international to seek new opportunities, as he aims to secure a place in the squad for the 2026 World Cup.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport , Zirkzee had fruitful discussions with Roma's sporting director Ricky Massara and manager Gian Piero Gasperini, resulting in his agreement to a winter transfer.

The same source indicates that Gasperini “assured” the Dutch player that he would fit well into his 3-4-2-1 formation, with potential roles in the front three.

If the transfer materializes, the center-forward will not move to Rome until mid-January, as Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will be returning from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Roma is believed to be aiming for an initial six-month loan deal, with an obligation to buy in the summer for approximately £35 million.

However, United's manager recently expressed reluctance to allow players to leave without securing replacements first.

Amorim stated: “It’s going to be difficult for anyone to leave the club if we don’t find a substitute.

“We are already short-staffed. Even with a full squad, we are lacking in depth for unforeseen circumstances.

“We are a club with significant responsibilities. We are addressing all these challenges, and in the media’s perspective, in my perspective, and in everyone’s perspective, we must win every game.

“Excuses are not an option.”

Illustration of football player Joshua Zirkzee and his Man Utd 2025-26 season stats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Joshua Zirkzee leaving Manchester United?

Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly leaving Manchester United due to a lack of playing time and his desire to secure a position in the Netherlands national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

What type of deal is Roma pursuing for Zirkzee?

Roma is looking to arrange an initial six-month loan deal for Zirkzee, with an obligation to buy in the summer for around £35 million.

When will Zirkzee officially join Roma?

If the transfer goes through, Zirkzee is expected to join Roma in mid-January, after the Africa Cup of Nations concludes.