Roma Interested in Reacquiring Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United
Joshua Zirkzee is once again on Roma’s radar as they consider bringing the Manchester United forward back to Serie A.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian club believes they could secure Zirkzee for a fee between €20 million and €25 million. This price represents a significant decrease from the amount Manchester United paid to acquire him from Bologna in 2024.
Zirkzee’s future at Manchester United appears uncertain, as he has struggled to find his place at the club. With the team preparing for an important summer under manager Michael Carrick, changes to the attacking lineup may be on the horizon.
After a strong finish to the season, Manchester United has secured a spot in the Champions League, which places them in a better position in the transfer market while also raising expectations for the squad.
High Hopes for Zirkzee’s Arrival at Manchester United
Zirkzee arrived at Manchester United with considerable anticipation. He had made a name for himself at Bologna, where his technical skills and effective link-up play marked him as one of Serie A’s notable forwards. In July 2024, United reached an agreement to sign him for €42 million, viewing him as a valuable asset to compete with Rasmus Hojlund and diversify their attacking options.
Unfortunately, Zirkzee’s time at United has not unfolded as many had hoped. Despite possessing talent, he has not consistently adapted to the high pace and intensity of the Premier League. In the 2025-26 season, ESPN reported his Premier League statistics showed only two goals and one assist over five starts and 17 appearances as a substitute, indicating he has often been on the periphery of the squad rather than integral to it.
This context makes Roma’s interest in Zirkzee understandable. He is already familiar with Italian football, where he enjoyed his best form. While not a conventional striker, Roma could utilize him in a more versatile position, perhaps as a left-sided attacking midfielder or a secondary striker.
A Return to Serie A Might Revive Zirkzee’s Career
Gazzetta’s report hints that if Zirkzee were to join Roma, he might adapt to a role as a left-sided trequartista.
For Manchester United, the key question remains whether selling him now would be a wise decision or if it would be premature. Accepting a fee of €20 million to €25 million would entail a loss on their original investment. However, if Carrick does not consider him a focal point in future plans, parting ways to reinvest elsewhere might be more prudent.
Roma had previously expressed interest in Zirkzee, as they were reportedly keeping a close watch on his situation earlier in the season. A transfer in January didn’t materialize due to changes in United’s management, which prompted the club to reassess their player roster, but Roma’s pursuit has clearly not waned.
n
