Serie A side AS Roma appear determined not to give up on their efforts to sign Joshua Zirkzee. The Italian capital club has reportedly reopened discussions with Manchester United to secure the services of the Dutch striker, signaling that the pursuit of the 22-year-old remains a top priority for the Giallorossi.
Over the past two months, Roma has been strongly linked with Zirkzee. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini is eager to strengthen the club’s attacking options, having expressed dissatisfaction with the performances of Evan Ferguson in the frontline. Zirkzee’s physical presence, finishing ability, and versatility make him an appealing target for Roma, especially as they seek to improve goal-scoring output in Serie A.
Challenges in Securing the Transfer
Despite Roma’s clear interest, bringing Zirkzee to Italy has proven challenging. Manchester United, the striker’s current club, has reportedly been reluctant to part ways with the Dutch forward during the winter transfer window. The Red Devils value Zirkzee as part of their attacking squad depth, and any decision to let him go would require careful consideration, particularly given the mid-season timing.
According to reports by renowned transfer journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, AS Roma has not been discouraged by the obstacles. The club is actively negotiating with Manchester United, demonstrating persistence in its attempts to finalize a deal for Zirkzee.
Roma’s Persistent Approach
AS Roma is reportedly taking a hands-on approach to ensure they secure Zirkzee’s signature. Representatives from the Italian side have maintained constant communication with Manchester United, presenting the club with reasons why the transfer could be mutually beneficial. Their aim is to persuade United’s management to approve a move to the Stadio Olimpico.
In addition to negotiating directly with Manchester United, Roma’s officials have also been in touch with Zirkzee’s agent. They are working to convince the striker that a mid-season move to Serie A would be advantageous for his career, emphasizing the opportunity for regular playing time and a leading role in Gasperini’s attack. Sources suggest that Roma is positioning itself as the ideal next step for Zirkzee, offering him a chance to prove himself at a club competing in European competitions.
The Decision Lies with Michael Carrick
At present, Manchester United’s management has neither accepted nor rejected Roma’s proposals. The fate of Zirkzee is reportedly being left in the hands of interim manager Michael Carrick.
Carrick, recently appointed to lead United until the end of the 2025/2026 season, is tasked with evaluating the squad comprehensively during the winter transfer window. His assessment will determine which players are integral to the team’s objectives and which could be moved to accommodate squad adjustments.
If Carrick decides that Zirkzee is surplus to requirements, the striker could be cleared to join Roma. Conversely, if the interim manager believes Zirkzee remains vital to United’s campaign, the Dutch forward will stay at Old Trafford for the remainder of the season.
Roma’s Proposed Deal for Zirkzee
Rumors circulating in the media indicate that AS Roma has already submitted a formal proposal to Manchester United regarding Zirkzee. The offer reportedly involves a six-month loan deal with an option to buy at the end of the season.
The permanent transfer clause is said to be valued at approximately €25–30 million, a figure Roma considers reasonable for a player of Zirkzee’s potential. This approach allows the club to assess the striker’s adaptation to Serie A before committing to a long-term arrangement, minimizing risk while providing United with potential financial compensation.
Strategic Importance for Roma
For AS Roma, acquiring Zirkzee could be a pivotal move in their quest to strengthen the attacking unit. Gasperini has expressed the need for a dynamic forward who can complement the existing options and provide a consistent goal threat. Zirkzee’s combination of height, pace, and finishing skill is seen as a perfect match for Roma’s tactical system, particularly in counter-attacking scenarios.
By pursuing the striker now, Roma hopes to address offensive inconsistencies and bolster squad depth ahead of a busy run of fixtures, including Serie A clashes and European commitments. A successful acquisition could also signal Roma’s ambition to compete more aggressively in both domestic and continental competitions.
Looking Ahead
The next few weeks will be critical in determining Zirkzee’s future. With Michael Carrick set to complete his assessment of the Manchester United squad, Roma will continue to press for clarity on the transfer. Should the Italian club succeed, Zirkzee will have the opportunity to reinvigorate his career in Serie A, joining a side eager to challenge for top honors.
For now, both clubs remain in discussions, while the striker himself appears open to the prospect of a move, provided it aligns with his playing ambitions. Fans and pundits alike are closely monitoring developments, as this potential transfer could have significant implications for both Manchester United’s squad depth and AS Roma’s attacking strategy.
In conclusion, AS Roma’s pursuit of Joshua Zirkzee highlights the club’s determination to strengthen their attacking options while navigating the challenges of a mid-season transfer. The decision ultimately rests with Michael Carrick, whose assessment will shape the future of the Dutch striker, as negotiations continue between the Serie A side and Manchester United.
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