Roma are again pursuing Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee, with new manager Gian Piero Gasperini reportedly keen on the Dutch attacker, according to reports in Italy. The club previously showed strong interest in Zirkzee during the January transfer window, but a change in management at United ultimately halted the potential move.
The situation shifted at Manchester United when Michael Carrick replaced Erik ten Hag as manager in May, subsequently securing a contract extension through 2028. While Carrick’s arrival initially improved United’s form – achieving 11 wins, 4 draws, and only 2 losses in 17 Premier League matches and qualifying for the Champions League – it did little to improve Zirkzee’s playing time. The 23-year-old has featured sporadically, starting only one match under Carrick, a 0-0 draw against Sunderland on May 9th, and accumulating just 127 minutes across 10 appearances.
Gasperini, who recently held talks with Ryan Friedkin, has reportedly reiterated his desire to bring Zirkzee to the Stadio Olimpico. The manager envisions Zirkzee operating as a left-sided attacking midfielder, forming an all-Dutch attacking partnership with fellow forward Donyell Malen, who joined Roma earlier this year. This setup would allow Gasperini tactical flexibility, with Zirkzee capable of playing as a false nine and linking play, contrasting with Malen’s preference for running in behind the defense.
Zirkzee’s contract with Manchester United runs until 2029, but Roma believe a fee in the range of €20-25 million could be sufficient to secure his signature. The former Bologna striker has scored two goals in 25 appearances for United this season, averaging just 25.16 minutes per game. His limited playing time suggests he may be open to a move, and a return to Italy could offer him a more prominent role. The potential arrival of Zirkzee would provide Gasperini with a valuable alternative to Malen and strengthen Roma’s attacking options ahead of the new season.
