Sir Jim Ratcliffe is causing difficulties for the Manchester United striker

This firm move indicates that Manchester United aims to tightly control finances and personnel strategy during this crucial phase of the season.

The future of the striker Joshua Zirkzee at Manchester United is becoming clearer than ever as he has agreed to leave Old Trafford in the January transfer window. However, the deal remains incomplete because Sir Jim Ratcliffe has firmly rejected the initial offer from AS Roma.

Zirkzee was brought to Manchester United in the summer of 2024 at the request of coach Erik ten Hag for a fee of £36.5 million following an outstanding season in Serie A. Although he scored on his debut, the Dutch forward failed to maintain that form and only managed three more goals in 38 Premier League appearances. An injury at the end of last season caused him to lose his place in the squad, and under coach Ruben Amorim, Zirkzee has started only three games this season.

Constantly being on the bench has led Zirkzee to believe his future at Old Trafford is over. According to Italian media, the 24-year-old striker quickly agreed to move to Roma when the capital club showed serious interest. However, Roma only offered a loan deal with an option to buy if they qualify for the Champions League, a condition immediately rejected by Manchester United.

According to internal sources, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has instructed Manchester United not to accept any disguised free transfers. He insists the club will only consider a full transfer for Zirkzee to generate funds for squad strengthening plans in January. The Red Devils are expected to prioritize signing a central midfielder and a quality wing-back.

Roma remains determined, but if an agreement with Manchester United cannot be reached, they will shift their focus to other targets such as Yuri Alberto from Corinthians. Meanwhile, Manchester United reportedly aims to receive around €35 million from the Zirkzee deal, a significant sum but fitting with coach Amorim’s squad rebuilding ambitions.

Selling Zirkzee could open up many opportunities for Manchester United in the winter transfer window. This is seen as a strategic move by Sir Jim Ratcliffe to ensure the club saves budget while being able to invest wisely, targeting the crucial acceleration phase of the season.

This situation makes Joshua Zirkzee’s transfer the hottest topic in the January market, with numerous developments promising more drama in the coming days.

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