Man Utd's INEOS‑backed side faces January decision on Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Manchester United remains in doubt, with reports suggesting his exit could be revisited during the January transfer window after he almost joined Everton on deadline day. The 25‑year‑old forward, whose contract runs to 2029, has yet to make a Premier League appearance this season.

Attack options under pressure

Zirkzee’s departure would have left Man Utd with no time to sign a replacement, and the club felt an exit would have left them too short in attack.

Everton, known as the Toffees, made a last‑ditch move to sign Zirkzee on an initial loan as they struggled to secure Folarin Balogun; the deal collapsed and Carrick’s side rejected the approach.

The Dutch striker has been an unused substitute in both of Manchester United’s two Premier League fixtures so far, and his contract runs until 2029, meaning United face no pressure to sell.

Michael said: “It’s always difficult to say, to be honest, when there’s so little time left, but we’re always open if there’s something else to be able to add. I wouldn’t shut that down but, as it stands, we’ll have to wait and see.”

January window looms

The Athletic reports: “Zirkzee’s future could well be revisited. United were open to offers for the forward this summer, but varying levels of interest from Serie A clubs Juventus, Como, Napoli and Fiorentina have eventually come to nothing, with suitors signing alternatives.” It adds: “Depending on Zirkzee’s performances in the first half of the season, and whether United feel they would have sufficient cover without him, there could be exit talks again.”

With the English transfer window now closed, a move elsewhere looks highly unlikely, so Zirkzee must fight for his place at Manchester United. Whether Everton or any Italian suitors return in January remains to be seen, and the Toffees will look to sign a new forward this winter.