Manchester United are reportedly exploring the possibility of a sensational swap deal involving Joshua Zirkzee, following the young striker’s disappointing start to life at Old Trafford. This move, if finalized, could signal a dramatic shift in United’s approach to resolving their attacking woes and securing a proven goalscorer.
Zirkzee arrived at Manchester United in the summer for a substantial £34 million fee from Bologna, signing a five-year contract that showcased the club’s faith in his potential. His signing was seen as a complementary addition to Rasmus Højlund, with the pair expected to form a dynamic partnership in United’s attack. The Dutch forward got off to a dream start, scoring a dramatic late winner on his debut against Fulham. However, that initial spark quickly faded, and he has since endured a frustrating spell, failing to find the back of the net in his next 15 appearances. His struggles have not gone unnoticed, and speculation about his future at the club has begun to intensify.
The recent appointment of Ruben Amorim as United’s manager has raised questions about whether Zirkzee might benefit from a clean slate under new leadership. Amorim’s arrival brings fresh ideas and renewed optimism, which could potentially rejuvenate the 22-year-old forward. Yet, despite this possibility, reports suggest that Manchester United may already be looking to cut their losses by using Zirkzee as a bargaining chip in their pursuit of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.
According to Il Mattino, as cited by Get Football News Italy, United have proposed offering Zirkzee as part of a swap deal for the prolific Nigerian striker. Osimhen’s situation at Napoli has been far from ideal this season. After being stripped of his iconic No. 9 shirt and falling out of favor with new manager Antonio Conte, Osimhen was loaned to Galatasaray, where he has rediscovered his form. The 25-year-old has been in scintillating form in Turkey, netting eight goals in just nine appearances. This resurgence has only heightened speculation about his availability, particularly as his loan agreement reportedly includes a clause allowing him to leave in January if a top European club comes calling.
For United, the appeal of Osimhen is obvious. The Nigerian international has a proven track record of delivering goals at the highest level, having been instrumental in Napoli’s Serie A triumph last season. His power, pace, and clinical finishing make him an ideal candidate to spearhead United’s attack alongside Højlund. The proposed swap deal could also work in Napoli’s favor. Zirkzee, though struggling at United, remains a young forward with considerable potential. Napoli might view him as a long-term project who could thrive in a less pressurized environment under Conte’s guidance.
This potential deal underscores Manchester United’s urgent need to strengthen their attacking options. With the team struggling to convert chances and maintain consistency in front of goal, securing a striker of Osimhen’s caliber could be a transformative move. However, it also raises questions about the club’s recruitment strategy, particularly the decision to invest heavily in Zirkzee only to consider parting ways with him mere months later.
For now, the proposed swap remains speculative, but the implications are significant. If United succeed in landing Osimhen, it could provide the firepower needed to reignite their campaign. On the other hand, Napoli would gain a promising young forward in Zirkzee, potentially rebuilding their attack around his talents. As January approaches, this high-stakes negotiation could define the direction of both clubs for the remainder of
the season.