Title: “Sunday Red Devils: Zirkzee Pushes for Exit as Everton Approach — West Ham Offer Rejected”
The situation at Manchester United appears to have reached a critical point for Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee. According to multiple reports, Zirkzee has asked to leave Old Trafford in the upcoming January transfer window, having grown increasingly frustrated with his lack of game time and his place in the squad. (Football365)
A Decline in Status
When Zirkzee arrived from Bologna FC in the summer of 2024 for around £36.5 million, expectations were high. Yet less than 18 months later, the 24-year-old is reported to be deep in the pecking order at United. (TEAMtalk)
His opportunities have been limited — this season he has not started a Premier League match and has featured only briefly off the bench. He has also slipped behind new recruits such as Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. (TEAMtalk)
The tactical system under manager Rúben Amorim hasn’t helped either. Zirkzee reportedly does not fit comfortably into the 3-4-2-1 shape, and the club has reportedly begun exploring other attacking options. (Football365)
Transfer Request & Club’s Response
Sources now say Zirkzee is ready to request a transfer, driven in part by his desire to play regularly ahead of next summer’s World Cup. (foxsports.com) According to a report from the Daily Star, he is set to ask the club for a move in January. (foxsports.com) Meanwhile, United appear potentially willing to listen. Multiple outlets indicate the club have made Zirkzee available for either sale or loan next winter. (tntsports.co.uk)
Interested Clubs and Rejection of West Ham Offer
Two Premier League clubs have emerged as potential destinations: Everton and West Ham United. Everton are reportedly keen on securing Zirkzee’s signature. (Everton News) Meanwhile, West Ham are described as “the only Premier League club” currently interested among English sides, according to recent reporting. (Man Utd News)
However, there is a twist. The supposed West Ham bid has—or reportedly has—been rejected, or at least failed to meet United’s expectations. Sources say West Ham’s interest exists, but United and Zirkzee are cautious about where he will go, given the need for able playing time and fit. (TEAMtalk)
In short: Zirkzee wants out, Everton are circling, West Ham made contact (or are leading interest) but the move has hit resistance.
Why the Move Makes Sense for Zirkzee
From the player’s perspective the logic is simple: he needs minutes. The Netherlands national team manager (Ronald Koeman) has recently indicated Zirkzee’s form is not good enough for selection, with comments pointing to his playing time and performance issues. (Hammers News) Being stuck on the bench at a big club may jeopardize his chances of making a World Cup squad.
Moreover, a move to a club where he can play regularly—and regain confidence—could revive both his club career and his international prospects.
Why United Might Sell
From United’s side, the rationale is clear: Zirkzee isn’t part of the long-term attacking plan. Reports suggest the club are ready to move on and have identified other forwards to build around. (TEAMtalk) Holding on to a frustrated, under-utilised player may be counterproductive for squad harmony.
That said, United will expect a good offer — especially given the fee they paid — and may prefer a loan with option to buy rather than a distressed sale. There are concerns about Zirkzee’s adaptation to the Premier League and his fit in the system. (Football365)
Potential Outcomes
- Everton Move: Could offer Zirkzee more minutes, but the club’s current situation might limit the help they can give him to rebuild.
- West Ham Move: Make sense in terms of staying in the Premier League, but both Zirkzee and United seem cautious.
- Serie A Return: Some Italian teams remain interested, and Zirkzee may prefer a return to the league where he thrived previously. (Man Utd News)
- Staying at United: If a move does not materialise, Zirkzee may stay—but risk spending another half-season on the fringes.
In conclusion, Joshua Zirkzee’s next few weeks could be decisive. He is pushing for a move away from Manchester United in January, and despite interest from the Premier League and Italy, the exact destination remains uncertain. For now, Everton and West Ham loom as leading possibilities, yet it looks likely that United won’t let him go unless the right deal comes.
