Yes to Rome: Zirkzee Chooses Serie A Return Over Manchester United

Transfer Update

The Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee has agreed to leave Manchester United during the upcoming winter transfer window to return to Serie A.

The British newspaper The Daily Mail reported his consent to Roma's offer, who are eager to bring him to the Olimpico in January.

Zirkzee arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2024 from Bologna for 36.5 million pounds, signing a five-year contract.

Having scored seven goals in 49 appearances last season, the Dutch striker has seen his playing time shrink this term under Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim.

According to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, the former Bayern Munich forward held positive talks with Roma's sporting director Ricky Massara and also with manager Gian Piero Gasperini, pushing him toward a move to the capital.

Gasperini believes Zirkzee fits his 3-4-2-1 system perfectly, as he did at Atalanta, and he would be deployed in that setup at Roma.

All of this comes as Zirkzee seeks a regular place in the Netherlands squad for the 2026 World Cup by joining a club that promises him consistent minutes.

Punchline 1: In Rome, Zirkzee shoots so often that the net might request a loyalty card.

Punchline 2: If he keeps finding the back of the net, Roma will stop calling it a transfer and start calling it a lifestyle upgrade.