This past summer, Manchester United went to Serie A to bolster their attack for the 2024-25 season. The Red Devils paid €42.5 million to Bologna for the 23-year-old standout Joshua Zirkzee, who was a marquee pillar for the Italian club's surprise campaign.
Bologna stunned everyone by finishing in the top four of Serie A last season, with Zirkzee playing a crucial role by starting 32 out of 38 league matches. Zirkzee finished the season as Bologna's top scorer, netting 11 goals and providing five assists, which certainly caught United's attention.
"It wasn't a difficult decision," Zirkzee said during his presentation this past summer. "I mean, I love Bologna a lot, but Manchester United just gave me a very, very good feeling. I'm confident that what's planned will also happen. It's been a rollercoaster the past, the past few weeks. But, Yeah, some very good experiences. And I'm very happy to be here.
"Obviously, at a good point (in his career). I mean, making a transfer to Manchester United is obviously something very positive. So, yeah, I just, can't wait to get started. And, and continue what I basically did last season. Just hoping to improve every day and, and do the best I can."
He was anticipated to compete with Rasmus Hojlund for a starting position, but things haven’t gone as expected.
Is Joshua Zirkzee heading to Turin?
Zirkzee is having a challenging time playing in England. He's made 12 appearances across all competitions while scoring one goal and recording one assist. As a result, could Manchester United decide to cut their losses before the player's value takes a bigger hit?
Tuttosport reports that Zirkzee could return on loan to Serie A after a disappointing start to his tenure at Old Trafford, with Juventus as the most likely destination. The young attacker has a connection with Thiago Motta, who got the best out of him at Bologna, so this potential deal makes sense.
🚨 Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee could return on loan to Serie A after just one goal in 11 games, with Juventus the most likely destination.
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) October 25, 2024
(Source: @Tuttosport) pic.twitter.com/tlQ9eBIHCC
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