SBOTOP : AS Roma Make Surprise Move for Joshua Zirkzee as Manchester United Consider Offer

AS Roma have moved swiftly in the January transfer window as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the second half of the season. In addition to monitoring Giacomo Raspadori, the Giallorossi are now seriously pursuing Joshua Zirkzee, with negotiations currently underway with Manchester United.

The move signals Roma’s intent to reshape their frontline as they chase domestic and European objectives, while Manchester United find themselves facing a delicate decision regarding one of their most talked-about attacking assets.

Official Offer Submitted as Talks Intensify

According to respected transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United have already received an official proposal from AS Roma through intermediaries. The structure of the offer is believed to be a loan deal with an obligation to buy, triggered once specific performance-related conditions are met.

This type of agreement would allow Roma to manage their financial exposure while still securing a long-term solution in attack. For United, the proposal presents both an opportunity and a dilemma, as they must weigh immediate squad needs against long-term planning.

Personal Terms Agreed With Zirkzee

Roma’s confidence has been further boosted by reports that they have reached a personal agreement with Zirkzee himself. The Dutch forward is said to be open to returning to Serie A, a league where he previously enjoyed a successful spell before making the move to England.

However, despite the player’s willingness, the transfer cannot be finalized without approval from Manchester United’s hierarchy and head coach Ruben Amorim. Amorim’s stance will be crucial, especially given United’s evolving transfer priorities.

Semenyo Snub Complicates United’s Position

The negotiations may not be as straightforward as Roma hope. Manchester United recently suffered a setback in the market after failing to secure Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth, with the player instead opting for a move to a Premier League rival.

That missed opportunity has reinforced United’s need for attacking depth, potentially slowing down their willingness to sanction Zirkzee’s departure. While the deal could technically be completed at any moment, insiders suggest talks may drag on as United reassess their options.

Roma’s Urgency Ahead of the Season’s Second Half

AS Roma are eager to resolve the situation quickly. The club believes that integrating Zirkzee as soon as possible would provide a significant boost ahead of the campaign’s decisive phase. His profile—a physically strong yet technically gifted striker—fits the tactical blueprint Roma are trying to establish.

With multiple competitions still in play, the Giallorossi see Zirkzee as a player capable of offering both immediate impact and long-term value, making this pursuit a top priority.

Clearing the Path: Dovbyk Set for Exit

To facilitate the arrival of Zirkzee, Roma are reportedly preparing to offload Artem Dovbyk during the winter mercato. The Ukrainian forward has struggled to adapt to Roma’s tactical setup, which many observers feel has failed to maximize his strengths.

Dovbyk’s situation has been complicated by a series of setbacks. A proposed swap deal involving Santiago Gimenez collapsed during the summer window, and subsequent injury problems have further stalled his progress at the Stadio Olimpico.

As a result, his time in Rome now appears to be nearing its conclusion.

Premier League Interest in Dovbyk Emerges

Roma have placed Dovbyk back on the transfer list, with West Ham United and Everton reportedly among the most serious suitors monitoring his situation.

Despite making a significant financial investment to bring him in, Roma are determined to avoid a substantial loss. The club is believed to be holding out for a fee of around €25 million, a figure that would allow them to reinvest immediately in the market—potentially accelerating the Zirkzee deal.

Why Zirkzee Fits Roma’s Vision

From a sporting perspective, Zirkzee represents a different attacking profile compared to Dovbyk. The Dutchman is known for his link-up play, mobility, and ability to operate both as a central striker and in deeper attacking roles.

Such versatility would give Roma’s coaching staff greater tactical flexibility, particularly against compact defenses where creativity and movement are essential. His familiarity with Serie A football also reduces the adaptation risk that often accompanies mid-season transfers.

A Deal That Could Shape January

As negotiations continue, all parties remain cautiously optimistic. Roma are pushing hard, Zirkzee is open to the move, and Manchester United are carefully evaluating their options amid a fluid transfer landscape.

If the pieces fall into place, the transfer could become one of January’s most intriguing stories—reshaping Roma’s attacking line while offering United clarity on their rebuilding process under Amorim.

For now, the football world watches closely as AS Roma await Manchester United’s response, knowing that a single decision could trigger a chain reaction across the winter transfer market.