Manchester United open Juventus talks as Joshua Zirkzee nears Old Trafford exit

Manchester United have entered discussions with Juventus over a potential move that would see forward Joshua Zirkzee leave Old Trafford, according to reports in Italy. Zirkzee arrived at United from Bologna in July 2024 for €42.5 million (£35.8m), signing a five-year deal. But the 25-year-old Netherlands international has struggled to nail down a regular starting spot, managing just nine goals in 75 appearances across all competitions. Interest from Atalanta and Roma failed to materialise into a January exit, but Juventus have now emerged as a serious suitor. Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport reports that United are open to a loan deal provided it includes an obligation to buy. Juventus, however, prefer a loan with a conditional obligation that only triggers if specific targets are met. Still, dialogue continues and optimism remains that a compromise can be reached. If Zirkzee departs, United's need for a new striker intensifies. Manager Michael Carrick's side are actively scouting for a reliable alternative to Benjamin Sesko, who scored 11 league goals last season. When Sesko wasn't leading the line, Carrick often deployed Bryan Mbeumo through the middle, while Zirkzee watched from the bench. Mbeumo, though, is most effective on the right wing, where he netted 11 Premier League goals last term. United are also looking to bring in a left winger to challenge Matheus Cunha this summer. The club have already completed deals for Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Karl Darlow ahead of Carrick's first full season in charge. Carrick, 45, took over permanently in May after a successful interim spell following Ruben Amorim's departure in January, guiding United to a third-place finish and Champions League qualification in 2025-26.