“He is just like Romelu Lukaku. He can’t play our style but he will do very well there. So we have to let him go for better players to come”-Man Utd ‘line up’ outrageous swap deal for world-class striker with Joshua Zirkzee set to leave
Manchester United are reportedly considering a bold swap deal involving Joshua Zirkzee following the young striker’s underwhelming start at Old Trafford. If finalized, this move could mark a significant shift in the club’s strategy to address their attacking challenges and secure a proven goalscorer.
Zirkzee joined United in the summer for £34 million from Bologna, signing a five-year deal that reflected the club’s confidence in his potential. Initially seen as a complementary partner to Rasmus Højlund, he made an impactful debut, scoring a late winner against Fulham. However, his form quickly declined, with no goals in his subsequent 15 appearances. This lack of impact has sparked speculation about his future at the club.
The arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim offers Zirkzee an opportunity for a fresh start, but reports suggest United may instead use him as part of a deal to pursue Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. According to *Il Mattino*, via *Get Football News Italy*, United have proposed including Zirkzee in a swap deal for the prolific Nigerian striker.
Osimhen, who has fallen out of favor at Napoli under Antonio Conte and is currently on loan at Galatasaray, has regained form with eight goals in nine games. His proven ability to deliver at the highest level, highlighted by his key role in Napoli’s Serie A title win last season, makes him an attractive target for United. His power, pace, and clinical finishing would provide the firepower United currently lack.
For Napoli, Zirkzee might represent a worthwhile gamble. Despite his struggles at United, the 22-year-old still possesses significant potential, which could be nurtured in a less pressured environment under Conte’s guidance.
The potential deal highlights United’s pressing need for a reliable striker while raising questions about their recruitment strategy, particularly the decision to invest heavily in Zirkzee only to consider his departure months later. If the swap materializes, it could reshape the season for both clubs. United would gain a top-tier forward in Osimhen, while Napoli could develop Zirkzee as a long-term project.
As January approaches, these negotiations could prove pivotal in defining the trajectory of both clubs for the remainder of the season
