Serie A giants considering January move for 24-year-old Manchester United outcast: Reports

AC Milan are reportedly considering making a move for Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee in January. Their current first-choice striker Santiago Gimenez has struggled to find his footing at San Siro, and that has reportedly prompted the Italian giants to weigh their options ahead of the next transfer window.

According to Gazetta dello Sport, Zirkzee has emerged as a prime target for AC Milan in the January window. The Rossoneri reportedly believes the 24-year-old’s experience in the Serie A and aerial strength make him an ideal mid-season fix.

Since joining Milan earlier this year, Gimenez has scored just seven goals in 30 appearances across all competitions. His one goal in 11 appearances this term has raised further questions on his goalscoring prowess, with his only strike coming in the Coppa Italia.

Elsewhere, Zirkzee, who joined Manchester United from Bologna in the summer of 2024, seems to be following in the unwanted footsteps of Gimenez since he arrived at Old Trafford. After a breakout 2023/24 season with Bologna, the Dutch forward scored just seven goals in 49 appearances in his debut season at United.

His goal drought has been compounded by a lack of game time, having played only five games this season under Ruben Amorim, all of which were substitute appearances. Due to the circumstances surrounding his time at Manchester United, a potential return to the Italian league in January is looking likely for the Dutch forward.

The Italian outlet claimed Milan tried to sign him in the summer window, but couldn’t reach an agreement with Manchester United. To that end, it is said that there is an internal discussion between the two clubs for a six-month loan with an option to buy for the player. Adding to the intrigue, the Daily Mail reported earlier this month that Zirkzee was keen to leave United in January amid a lack of regular playing time.

Zirkzee’s current deal with United will run out in 2029, and his current market value stands at €28 million, according to Transfermarkt.

Manchester United to block requests from players to leave in January – Reports

As per an earlier report from The Sun, Manchester United will block potential departures of Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo if they ask to leave the club in January. The pair have had limited playing time this season and have been tipped to leave in the next window.

However, United are preparing for a winter of temporary departures of a few first-team players. The Red Devils are likely to be without Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui in December, as the trio will most likely be called up by their respective countries for the Africa Cup of Nations.

To that end, United will reportedly not grant requests from either Zirkzee or Mainoo to leave the club on loan, as both are in line for key roles during that period.