How Much Will Man Utd Sell Erik ten Hag's £36.5m Signing For?

Manchester United have reportedly set their asking price for Joshua Zirkzee amid interest from several clubs, including AS Roma and two Premier League teams. The Dutch forward, who moved to United from Bologna for £36.5 million in 2024, has struggled to find form since his arrival and is now seeking a transfer to reinvigorate his career.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Joshua Zirkzee's future at Manchester United appears uncertain as he has not started a single match in the current 2025-26 season. With his playing time severely limited under manager Ruben Amorim, Zirkzee is reportedly open to a January transfer. United have set an asking price of £31 million for the 24-year-old, and discussions are ongoing with AS Roma regarding a potential loan deal that could lead to a permanent transfer next summer.

Key takeaways

Manchester United are open to selling Joshua Zirkzee, setting his asking price at £31 million.
Zirkzee has not started any matches this season, prompting speculation about a move in January.
AS Roma are leading the chase, with Premier League clubs Everton and West Ham also interested.

Timeline: how we got here

Here's a brief timeline of key events leading to the current situation regarding Zirkzee:

Summer 2024: Zirkzee joins Manchester United from Bologna for £36.5 million.
2024-25 Season: The forward scores three goals in the Premier League, struggling to find consistent form.
October 2025: Zirkzee has yet to start a game this season, leading to growing speculation about a transfer.
October 2023: Reports emerge that AS Roma are interested in acquiring Zirkzee, with United open to negotiations.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent reports indicate that Manchester United are in discussions with AS Roma about a loan deal for Zirkzee, with a potential permanent transfer option included. The asking price is reportedly set at £31 million, aligning with the fee Roma must pay for another target, Evan Ferguson.

What was already established

It has been widely acknowledged that Zirkzee has faced challenges since joining United, including limited playing time and a lack of goals, prompting discussions about a potential exit.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For fans of Manchester United, Zirkzee's potential move could signify a shift in the club's focus on player development and utilisation. The departure of players who are not contributing may also enhance the team's overall performance, impacting ticket sales and merchandise revenue.

Businesses and jobs

The transfer market dynamics in the Premier League could be affected by Zirkzee's move, influencing how clubs prioritise their spending in the January transfer window. For clubs like Everton and West Ham, securing Zirkzee could bolster their attacking options, impacting their performance and financial stability.

Policy and regulation

Manchester United's willingness to negotiate a loan deal reflects broader trends in football financing, where clubs are increasingly open to loans with options to buy in order to manage financial fair play regulations while still improving their squads.

Numbers that matter

£36.5 million: Transfer fee paid by Manchester United to secure Zirkzee from Bologna.
£31 million: Manchester United's asking price for Zirkzee in potential transfer talks with AS Roma.
3: Goals scored by Zirkzee in the Premier League last season, indicating a significant drop in form.
0: Number of starts Zirkzee has made in the current season, highlighting his limited role at United.
1: The number of attacking signings Roma hopes to make in the winter window, indicating their need for reinforcements.

Definitions and jargon buster

Loan deal: An agreement where a player temporarily joins another club, with the original club retaining ownership.
Permanent transfer: A transfer where a player is sold outright to another club.
Financial Fair Play: Regulations set by UEFA to prevent clubs from spending more than they earn.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Expect further developments in the transfer negotiations between Manchester United and AS Roma. Zirkzee’s situation will likely be closely monitored by both sets of fans, as well as potential suitors.

Medium term (1–6 months)

If Zirkzee does move to Roma, he will have the opportunity to re-establish his career in Serie A, potentially leading to a return to form ahead of next summer’s World Cup.

Signals to watch

Any official announcements from Manchester United or AS Roma regarding transfer negotiations.
Zirkzee's performance in training and any indications of his readiness to move.
Reports on other potential signings by Roma, particularly if they fail to secure Zirkzee.

Practical guidance

Do

Monitor transfer news closely as January approaches for updates on Zirkzee’s situation.
Consider the implications of potential transfers on your favourite clubs and players.

Don’t

Assume Zirkzee will remain at United; the situation could change rapidly.
Overlook other clubs' interests as they may impact Zirkzee’s options.

Checklist

Stay updated on Zirkzee's performance and involvement in training sessions.
Follow news from reputable sources regarding transfer negotiations.
Be aware of how potential transfers could affect your club’s season.
Engage with discussions about player movements on social media or fan forums.
Consider the long-term implications of Zirkzee's potential move on his career trajectory.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the interest in Zirkzee is strong, the final outcome remains uncertain. Factors such as his willingness to take a pay cut to join Roma and the club's ability to negotiate terms will significantly influence the chances of a successful transfer. Additionally, if Roma cannot secure Zirkzee, they may pivot to other targets, including Mathys Tel from Tottenham, which could affect the dynamics of the transfer market.

Bottom line

Joshua Zirkzee's future at Manchester United looks increasingly tenuous as the January transfer window approaches. With clubs like AS Roma showing interest and United willing to negotiate, this situation presents a pivotal moment for Zirkzee, who aims to revive his career and enhance his prospects for the World Cup next summer.

FAQs

What is Manchester United's asking price for Joshua Zirkzee?

Manchester United have set an asking price of £31 million for Joshua Zirkzee amid interest from clubs like AS Roma.

Why has Zirkzee struggled at Manchester United?

Since joining United, Zirkzee has struggled for form and playing time, scoring only three goals last season and failing to start in the current campaign.

Which clubs are interested in signing Zirkzee?

AS Roma is reportedly leading the race for Zirkzee, with Premier League clubs Everton and West Ham also linked with the forward.