Manchester United star linked with a surprise move to Juventus: Reports
Juventus have set their sights on Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee, according to Calciomercato. The Dutch striker joined the Red Devils from Bologna this summer in a €50m deal.
Zirkzee was very impressive for the Emilia-Romagna club last season, registering 12 goals and seven assists from 37 games across competitions. However, the 23-year-old hasn't managed to replicate that form at Old Trafford so far.
The Dutchman has just one goal from eight games for United and has been a shadow of his former self this season. Former Bologna manager Thiago Motto, who is currently in charge of Juventus, is reportedly keeping a close watch on the situation.
Zirkzee was highly effective under the Italian, who is now eyeing a reunion at Turin as early as January. As per the aforementioned report, the Bianconeri have identified the Dutchman as a replacement for Dusan Vlahovic, who has failed to impress this season.
Motta is apparently confident that he can get his former player firing on all cylinders. The Italian manager gave Zirkzee the freedom to get involved in the build-up at Bologna, which brought the best out of the player.
A move back to the Serie A could help the Manchester United striker regain his lost form.
Could Manchester United offload Joshua Zirkzee in January?
Manchester United invested wisely in their squad this summer, with new owners INEOS roping in players for the present and the future. Joshua Zirkzee was the Red Devils' first signing of the window and hinted at the club's long-term plans.
The Dutchman enjoyed a dream start to life with the Premier League giants. Coming off the bench for his Manchester United debut against Fulham, he scored the only goal of the game.
Unfortunately, Zirkzee couldn't build on that blistering start and is now going through a mini-crisis. However, his off-the-ball work and buildup play have gathered much praise from fans and pundits alike.
The Red Devils have failed to impress under Erik ten Hag this season, losing four of their nine games across competitions. With the entire team struggling, it would be unfair to blame Zirkzee alone.
As such, the Red Devils are unlikely to give up on the Dutch striker just yet. Despite the presence of Rasmus Hojlund, Zirkzee remains key to Manchester United's plans, especially since he is a different profile to the Dane.
As Erik ten Hag works to turn things around at Old Trafford, his countryman could end up being his trump card.