Man Utd in 'advanced talks' over £30m transfer as agreement reached behind the scenes

Michael Carrick is planning his squad for the 2026/27 season (Image: Getty)

Manchester United are reportedly in advanced talks with Juventus over a summer deal for Joshua Zirkzee. The striker joined the Red Devils under the tutelage of Erik ten Hag, but in his two seasons at Old Trafford has struggled to make an impact.

The Dutchman originally arrived from Bologna and it looks as if he is set for a return to the Italian first tier, with Juventus said to be keen. The Turin outfit had been close to completing a deal for former loanee Randal Kolo Muani, but a deal with PSG collapsed at the 11th hour.

As such, according to The Sun, Juventus have turned their attention to Zirkzee, who could be available as part of a cut-price deal. It’s reported by the outlet that United chiefs have agreed they would be willing to sanction a loan move for Zirkzee, with a £30million option to buy inserted in the contract.

Juventus aren’t the only side pursuing Zirkzee though, with Roma having held an interest in the attacker for some time. Unlike Juventus, Roma have Champions League football on offer this season, but it does look as if the Old Lady boasts the best chance of securing his signature.

Zirkzee, who has scored just nine times since arriving at the Red Devils, is believed to be open to joining Juventus, should a deal present itself. It’s claimed Zirkzee’s people see Serie A as a much better fit for his playing style, with the 25-year-old having struggled in the hustle and bustle of the Premier League.

United have already got their pre-season preparations underway, with matches against Wrexham and Rosenborg already under their belt. Reacting after the victory over the latter, Carrick said: ”As much as you want everything to be improving and performances to be better all the time, I think keeping players fit and progressing through pre-season is as important as anything.

Rosenborg BK v Manchester United - Pre-Season Friendly

Joshua Zirkzee looks set for a Man Utd exit (Image: Getty)

United have already got their pre-season preparations underway, with matches against Wrexham and Rosenborg already under their belt. Reacting after the victory over the latter, Carrick said: ”As much as you want everything to be improving and performances to be better all the time, I think keeping players fit and progressing through pre-season is as important as anything.

”The younger players coming on, I thought they were fantastic and played as a team and deserved what they got. I thought there were a lot of good things. Some of the goals were fantastic and [it is] just as pleasing to keep a clean sheet. We’re moving forward nicely.

”It’s the best place to be as a footballer when you’re in that zone, and you’re confident. It’s my job to try and get the players in that frame of mind."