Man Utd Star Demands January Escape After Reaching Breaking Point

Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee is prepared to seek a January departure from Old Trafford as he attempts to salvage his World Cup prospects, according to a new report.

Following his £36.5 million ($49 million) transfer from Bologna during the 2024 summer window, Zirkzee managed only seven goals throughout his inaugural season, and these disappointing numbers influenced United's choice to invest £200 million in revamping their attacking options this year.

Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Šeško were all costly acquisitions for manager Ruben Amorim's squad, and the heightened battle for playing time resulted in Rasmus Højlund's departure to Napoli on an initial loan deal during the summer. Zirkzee, meanwhile, remained at the club as backup.

Having made only four appearances totaling 82 minutes across all competitions, the Daily Mail reports that Zirkzee is prepared to end his United stint and leave the club in January.

Zirkzee is reportedly extremely frustrated with his circumstances, particularly given this is a World Cup year. He was omitted from Ronald Koeman's most recent Netherlands roster and hasn't featured for his national team since November.

Zirkzee Previously Wanted by Napoli—Then Serie A Giants Signed Højlund

A January departure is viewed as "essential" for Zirkzee's chances of earning his way back into Koeman's considerations, and his dissatisfaction has reached such levels that he's willing to advocate for a winter transfer.

During the summer, Napoli showed interest in Zirkzee before eventually securing Højlund, while Juventus have long been admirers of the former Bologna striker, whose tally of 11 goals and five assists in the 2023–24 season ultimately secured his move to United.

United might prefer to retain Zirkzee as backup coverage, but his slide down the hierarchy is undeniable. Midfielder Mason Mount has been deployed ahead of him as a central forward, while the enhanced competition in attacking midfield has further restricted his chances at Old Trafford.

Zirkzee remains under contract at United through 2029, with an additional 12-month extension clause included in his agreement, meaning the Red Devils face no immediate pressure to approve a sale.