Amorim's Man United Departure Throws Zirkzee's Future Into Chaos—'Everything Has Changed'

Joshua Zirkzee appears increasingly likely to remain at Manchester United during this transfer window as Roma, who had shown strong interest, are now pursuing an alternative to the Dutch striker, according to recent reports.

The forward had been strongly connected with a move to Roma, which would mark his return to Italian football after his impressive performances at Bologna before his £36.5 million ($49 million) transfer to Old Trafford in 2024.

The 24-year-old has faced limited playing opportunities during the season's opening months and has been widely expected to seek a move elsewhere to secure regular minutes needed to regain his place in the Netherlands national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup this summer.

Roma sporting director Ricky Massara expressed reduced confidence in securing Zirkzee's signature due to evolving situations at Old Trafford. No discussions were currently "ongoing," while the Italian club has instead initiated contact with Atlético Madrid regarding Italy striker Giacomo Raspadori.

"[Zirkzee] is a Manchester United striker who attracts interest from numerous clubs, not exclusively ours," Massara informed Sky Sport Italia this week. "Obviously, circumstances have shifted following the managerial change, no active discussions are taking place, but I wouldn't concentrate on specific individuals."

He continued: "It's accurate that negotiations are underway with both Atlético Madrid and regarding Raspadori."

Following Massara's comments, Sky Sport Italia reported that Roma have swiftly reached terms with Atlético to acquire Raspadori on loan with a purchase option. The player must approve the proposed transfer, but it's emphasized that any interest in Zirkzee would cease if this deal proceeds.

Joshua Zirkzee's Recent Man Utd Resurgence

Following minimal involvement during the season's opening months, Zirkzee has seen increased usage by United since the November international break. This included being utilized by Darren Fletcher in the initial match following Amorim's unexpected departure.

While he continues primarily coming off the substitute bench, he has contributed in each of the previous 10 Premier League matches, recording direct goal contributions in two of the most recent three games.

An additional factor that might complicate Zirkzee's immediate departure is the anticipation that no new acquisitions will occur this month.

This was something Amorim clarified in December, and his exit hasn't altered this approach: "It will be challenging for anyone to depart the club without bringing in a replacement. We lack depth. Even with our complete roster, we're understaffed for potential situations."

United were reportedly interested in Antoine Semenyo due to the opportunity his £65 million release clause presented. However, after the goal-scoring winger selected Manchester City, the Red Devils withdrew and decided against investing heavily in an alternative. Instead, resources will be preserved for the summer window, when a central midfielder represents the primary objective.

This approach originated from levels above Amorim, reflecting the plan for a more institutionally-driven strategy, rather than constructing around individual manager preferences.