Manchester United are trying to offload Joshua Zirkzee before the end of the summer transfer window.
As things stand, Fiorentina are ahead of Juventus and Napoli in the race for his signature, and they are open to paying a loan fee as well.
INEOS are yet to give the green light, as they would prefer a permanent sale or at least a loan with an obligation to buy.
The Dutchman had enjoyed a fine pre-season, and amid Benjamin Sesko’s injury troubles, there were calls to play the former Bologna ace against Hull City.
Joshua Zirkzee set to leave
Michael Carrick opted to start Matheus Cunha up top, while bringing on Marcus Rashford and Shea Lacey instead of the Netherlands international.
It is clear that Joshua Zirkzee has no future at Old Trafford, but should he depart, the head coach will want backup up top.
Sesko cannot be overburdened, while Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Marcus Rashford are far more adept when playing out wide rather than as the lone target man.
The Athletic have revealed that the Red Devils are currently looking for a backup striker, but owing to their spend this summer, they can only afford a loan.
United’s plans for Joshua Zirkzee’s replacement revealed
“Fiorentina are advancing in talks with Manchester United over a loan move for Joshua Zirkzee.
“Current terms of negotiation are over a loan with a fee, plus an option to buy. The deal will have to make sense for United to accept.
“United have been looking at centre-forwards should Zirkzee depart, but so far these have centred on loan prospects.”
No names have been mentioned in the report, but the truly elite names are unlikely to agree to a short-term stay.
It will be interesting to see if the 20-time English league champions can sign a striker before the window slams shut. Not to forget, United urgently need a left-back as well.
Feature image Julian Finney via Getty Images
