Everton turn to Man Utd star after Balogun blow: Deal ‘expected’

Everton turn to Man Utd star after Balogun blow: Deal ‘expected’ Make us your Google favourite Manchester United attacker Joshua Zirkzee has emerged as a shock late transfer target for Everton late in the window. Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford has been a source of uncertainty throughout the summer but it appears he will get a move in the closing minutes of the window, with David Moyes revisiting his old club to push through a hurried deal. Everton have taken a last-minute interest in Zirkzee after their move for Monaco’s Folarin Balogun collapsed at the last moment due to a failed medical . With the Toffees facing a striker shortfall, they have turned towards Zirkzee to fill a gap in their squad, Sacha Tavolieri reports . The broadcaster Sport Switzerland transfer insider stated: “Everton FC push now to make happen a last-minute deal Joshua Zirkzee. Folarin Balogun has also changed the plans of the Toffees. Talks now ongoing to find a deal with Man Utd.” He subsequently added: “Joshua Zirkzee is expected to join Everton FC on loan as things stand.” Desperate Everton push for late Zirkzee deal USMNT striker Balogun had been expected to hook up with the Toffees in a €50 million deal only for the move to falter at the last moment. With only Tierno Barry and Tyrique George as centre-forward options for Moyes’ side, they have hurriedly turned towards another possibility in the form of Zirkzee. The 25-year-old was previously linked with a move back to Serie A, where he made his name with Bologna. Fiorentina were interested in him while he was also linked variously with Napoli, Roma and Juventus, yet no deal was ever done. Crucially, Everton have been made aware that Zirkzee was not high on the list of Manchester United manager Michael Carrick’s plans, and this has opened the door to a dramatic late move. The Red Devils would also be taking a risk in allowing the Dutchman to depart, though. Carrick’s side are also short of natural options at centre-forward, though Marcus Rashford’s unexpected stay has alleviated some of these concerns. And it is not as if Zirkzee has been particularly prolific while at Old Trafford, having only scored nine goals in 75 appearances. A loan deal seems the likeliest solution to force this move through at the last moment, which Everton are desperate to do.