Joshua Zirkzee’s future at the club is hanging as he is been offered to EPL rivals 

Joshua Zirkzee’s future at the club is hanging as he is been offered to EPL rivals

According to a report by United In Focus, Manchester United are facing a pivotal decision in the January transfer window, with striker Joshua Zirkzee’s future at the club hanging by a thread. After a promising start to his United career with a debut goal against Fulham, Zirkzee’s form has taken a steep decline. The Dutch forward has failed to add to his tally in 18 appearances, prompting frustration from manager Ruben Amorim and raising questions about his long-term prospects at Old Trafford.

 

Zirkzee was brought in for £36 million from Bologna last summer to ease the burden on Rasmus Hojlund, who carried the striking responsibilities for much of the previous season. However, his lack of goals and inconsistent positioning—highlighted during United’s recent draw with Ipswich Town—has led to reports that Amorim is growing increasingly frustrated. According to insiders, patience within the club is wearing thin, with Juventus already expressing interest in signing Zirkzee should they lose Dusan Vlahovic.

 

If Zirkzee exits in January, Manchester United may have the perfect replacement lined up: Evan Ferguson. The 19-year-old Brighton striker, who was once valued at £100 million, is now reportedly available on loan. According to The Telegraph, Ferguson has fallen down the pecking order at Brighton, making just one appearance this season. This situation presents a rare opportunity for United to secure one of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents at a fraction of his previous valuation.

 

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who now oversees United’s sporting operations through Ineos, was keen on signing Ferguson last summer. Though Brighton’s steep asking price deterred United at the time, a loan move now seems a feasible option. Ferguson’s physicality, pressing ability, and presence in the box make him an ideal fit for Amorim’s high-intensity system, which relies on a strong focal point in attack.

 

Another name linked to United is Viktor Gyökeres, currently excelling at Sporting CP. With a £63 million release clause, Gyökeres has been touted as a long-term solution, especially given his successful partnership with Amorim at Sporting. However, Sporting’s president has made it clear that Gyökeres will only be available in the summer, making a mid-season move unlikely.

 

If Zirkzee leaves in January, Ferguson offers a lower-risk, high-reward solution. Though he’s had limited game time this season, Ferguson’s potential remains undiminished. Just last year, he was scoring hat-tricks in the Premier League and was widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in English football.

 

For United, securing Ferguson on loan could be a smart financial move, especially if the club’s transfer budget shrinks in 2025. With Amorim seeking a striker who can adapt quickly to his system, Ferguson’s attributes could make him the perfect mid-season addition.

 

As the January window approaches, Manchester United must act decisively. Allowing Zirkzee to leave and bringing in Ferguson could be the shake-up Amorim needs to reignite United’s attack and push the club back into contention for top honors.