United may rethink winter market after Zirkzee backs Napoli move in January as INEOS eyes shift

Manchester United paid around £36.5 million to bring Netherlands striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in the 2024 summer window, and, according to reports, the forward has now said yes to a January move to Euro giants Napoli, a decision that could force United – under caretaker Michael Carrick – to rethink their winter‑transfer strategy.

Big spend, limited impact

Man Utd invested around £36.5 million to sign the Netherlands international from Bologna during the 2024 summer window. The Red Devils also brought Rasmus Hojlund in the same period to strengthen their attack. Neither forward has lived up to expectations at Old Trafford.

Winter window and INEOS influence

Hojlund’s form improved after his move to Napoli, but he arrived at United devoid of confidence and never proved himself as a starting striker. The club’s lack of faith in his abilities limited his chances to feature regularly.

Zirkzee, by contrast, has remained at United longer but has only impressed in flashes, with his skill set appearing more suited to a No.10 role than a traditional No.9. Limited opportunities over the past couple of seasons have left him on the periphery, and a January or next‑summer exit now seems appropriate.

Euro giants eye Zirkzee exit as January looms for Manchester United

Italian outlet Area Napoli Juventus are also monitoring the Dutchman, while Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has devised a plan backed by two unexpected allies – former Red Devils Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay – who could counsel Zirkzee on a Serie A spell.

According to the same source, Zirkzee has already said yes to a possible return to Serie A, though he should be wary of competition from Juventus. His willingness aligns with United’s desire to offload a player who has not fulfilled his potential.

The Sun claims United could change their approach to the January window because of a lack of options, with INEOS showing willingness to explore the winter market after signing Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven for a January 2025 arrival. No new signings arrived in January 2024 or 2026, and recent injuries to Luke Shaw, Patrick Dorgu and Noussair Mazraoui have raised questions about United’s functionality until the next window.

If United does pivot, the INEOS‑driven shift may signal a broader trend of clubs turning to the winter market for reinforcements, reshaping transfer dynamics across Europe.