Joshua Zirkzee is expected to request an away transfer from Manchester United in the upcoming January transfer window. West Ham are leading the race to rescue the Dutch international from the Old Trafford nightmare. Zirksee has had a difficult time at United since his £36m move from Bologna under Erik ten Hag.
The striker has struggled to make his mark and has been ridiculed for his lack of goals. Last season, the 24-year-old scored just seven times in 49 games across all competitions. He has only appeared in four games this season, his last league goal for United coming 10 months after scoring in December last year. United manager Ruben Amorim decided Zirksee did not fit into his long-term plans.
The situation was made worse by the summer signings of Brian Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko. Zirkzee has fallen down the pecking order and realizes he needs to leave United to rebuild his sluggish career.
United bosses are thought to be open to an offer for Zirksee in the January transfer window. Another possibility is a loan move for the remainder of the season with the option of a permanent move.
Zirksee fears a lack of first-team action could jeopardize his chances of representing the Netherlands at the World Cup. Dutch coach Ronald Koeman has advised Zirksee that he needs more game time to be considered for selection if the team qualify for next summer’s competition.
Zirksee wants to remain in the Premier League, but is open to returning to Europe if it means parting ways with Manchester United.
