As has so frequently been the case for Manchester United in recent winter windows, they will have to raise funds from sales in order to then bolster the squad with signings.
While fans could likely provide a lengthy list of players they want to see offloaded next month, there are only a handful of options the board could realistically part ways with before seeking prospective replacements in the four-week-long window.
One Red, Joshua Zirkzee, has been linked with a move away countless times in recent months, which is astounding considering he only joined the club in July.
His tumultuous start at Old Trafford has seen him score only three goals in 27 appearances since 2024/2025 got underway; initially, the 23-year-old opened his account on his debut against Fulham in August before notching a brace in a 4-0 win over Everton on December 1.
Zirkzee offered escape route from United struggles
Last night, he endured the lowest point of his Red Devils career thus far. After struggling to make an impact in the opening half-hour of the clash with Newcastle United, Zirkzee was substituted in the 33rd minute with the side trailing 2-0.
His exit was met with boos and jeers from the supporters in attendance, prompting the forward to grab his coat and head straight down the tunnel for some respite. He returned a few minutes later and cut a subdued figure on the bench for the remainder of the game.
Alas, you couldn’t really blame Zirkzee for wanting a mid-season move. Even if his performances haven’t been up to the standard desired of him, there’s absolutely no reason he should be singled out amidst his other out-of-form teammates. If his own fans can’t rally behind him through a difficult period, how do we have any hope he’ll succeed?
He may be provided an escape route in the form of a Serie A return, too. Sport Witness has today relayed reports from TuttoSport and La Repubblica, which claim Juventus will ‘almost certainly’ submit an offer for the Netherlands international in January in a transfer that would see him reunite with ex-Bologna coach Thiago Motta.
The problem for United, however, is that the Italian giants do not have the funds available to sign Zirkzee permanently this winter. Instead, they hope to welcome him on loan while agreeing an option to buy at the end of the campaign.
