Manchester United could be on the verge of making a defining call on the future of one of their key attackers.
According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, AS Roma are advancing in talks with Joshua Zirkzee on personal terms as their top target for January.
The Italian outfit are pushing to strike a deal as quickly as possible, but the final call rests with United, who are already stretched thin by Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) absences.
The Netherlands international arrived at Old Trafford from Bologna in the summer of 2024 for a hefty £36.5 million fee.
The 24-year-old has struggled to live up to that billing under the bright lights of the Theatre of Dreams.
Despite making 49 appearances last season, he managed just seven goals.
The lack of European football has only compounded his problems, severely limiting his opportunities for consistent minutes.
He has featured in just 10 matches this campaign, starting only three and clocking a modest 363 minutes in total.
Zirkzee lacks key characteristics to be a United player and thrive in the intense Premier League.
While technically gifted, he lacks the explosive speed expected of a traditional top-level striker in England.
He often drops deep to collect the ball and link up with runners on either side.
That profile suggests he would thrive far more in a side built around his strengths rather than asking him to lead the line.
Roma are believed to be exploring a loan move with an obligation to buy next summer, a structure that could appeal to all parties.
For United, cashing in now may prove wiser than persisting with a player who risks becoming an expensive squad option.
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