Aston Villa have contacted Manchester United to explore a possible move for Joshua Zirkzee, according to a report from GiveMeSport citing Fabrizio Romano.
Romano stressed that Villa’s approach amounted only to an initial call. He said there had been no bid or negotiation between the clubs at the time of his update.
The transfer guru linked Villa’s enquiry to uncertainty surrounding Ollie Watkins, who is expected to be the subject of renewed interest from Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal.
Villa are therefore reported to be considering possible forward additions, with Zirkzee among the names attracting their attention.
Romano outlines early Villa approach
Speaking in his latest YouTube update, Romano said United could have decisions to make over Zirkzee during the closing stages of the transfer window.
“Baleba is done, but Manchester United are not done,” he said. “Man United are looking for a left-back, and then let’s see what is going to happen in the next days for the Joshua Zirkzee situation.
“Italian clubs calling. I’m told there was a call, just a call at the moment, no bid, no negotiation, but just a call, also from Aston Villa. Why Aston Villa? Why? Because Al Hilal are expected to return to the table for Ollie Watkins.”
The distinction is important because an enquiry does not necessarily mean Villa will submit a formal proposal. Romano’s information places their interest at a very early stage.
He also confirmed yesterday’s reports that Italian clubs have been making calls regarding the Netherlands international, although he did not confirm that they were Napoli and Juventus.
Zirkzee is currently behind Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo in the centre-forward hierarchy under Michael Carrick. That reported competition for places could become relevant if the 25-year-old seeks more regular first-team football.
Zirkzee’s United record comes under scrutiny
Zirkzee joined the Red Devils from Bologna for £34.5 million two summers ago.The forward has since registered nine goals and four assists across 75 appearances in all competitions, playing 2,901 minutes.
He has scored twice during pre-season and was generally considered one of the leading lights of the summer campaign.
His lack of regular football contributed to him losing his place in the Netherlands squad before this summer’s World Cup.
For Villa, Zirkzee’s Premier League experience could make him an accessible option if Watkins departs. His scoring record in England would nevertheless leave questions over whether he could immediately replace their established striker.
GiveMeSport notes that Nicolas Jackson has also been linked with Villa, suggesting Unai Emery’s side are assessing more than one potential reinforcement.
From United’s perspective, a sale would be preferable to a loan, which would make a deal with the Midlands club preferable to the Serie A options. They will need funds to replace the Dutchman. Time is also of the essence with the transfer window closing in just 10 days’ time.
The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 9/10
Why?
- ✅ Romano is a tier 1 reporter, very reliable
- ✅ Villa will certainly need to replace Watkins
- ⚠️ It's just an enquiry at this stage
TPP View
An interesting development. All eyes are on the Watkins deal – United would face a race against time to replace Zirkzee at this stage.
Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images
