Report: Manchester United’s January transfer priority emerges as Ruben Amorim plots replacement
Manchester United have an attacking problem, with the team having scored just nine goals in seven games so far.
New signings Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have failed to make the impact Man United would have hoped for.
Joshua Zirkzee, who arrived last year, has also struggled to settle in at Old Trafford. Since arriving from Bologna, the Dutch striker has scored just seven goals and provided three assists in 53 appearances, a disappointing return for a player once seen as a long-term solution in the No.9 role.
Zirkzee was heavily linked with a move during the summer transfer window, but no deal ever materialized.
Despite remaining at the club, Amorim does not see him as part of his tactical plans, with the striker having only played three times this season, all from the bench.
His exclusion from the Dutch squad during the recent international break has only fueled speculation over his future, with reports now suggesting he could leave in January 2026, either on loan or permanently.
Manchester United ready to sign new striker if Joshua Zirkzee leaves
This potential departure has put Manchester United’s recruitment team on alert. According to TEAMtalk, United are preparing to explore striker options ahead of the January transfer window to ensure sufficient attacking depth.
As the club prioritizes a ‘good value’ addition over a blockbuster signing, replacing Zirkzee’s presence becomes increasingly urgent.
The 24-year-old is said to be attracting keen interest in Italy, with Serie A clubs AS Roma and newly-promoted Como among the teams closely monitoring his availability, suggesting a return to the league where he previously excelled is highly likely.
Manchester United January transfer options: Who could replace Joshua Zirkzee?
Among the players Manchester United could sign in January is Real Madrid youngster Endrick, who has fallen out of favor at the club, as was first reported here for the Daily Briefing.
The talented Brazilian has around eight clubs considering him as a transfer target and one of those clubs is Manchester United.
Another player linked to the club is Antoine Semenyo. Manchester United were also interested in signing him this summer, with Ruben Amorim even taking him to lunch in order to convince him to move.
A recent report suggests that the Cherries will be willing to let the player leave in January for the right price, with the club valuing him at almost 100 million in January.
Although not a true center forward, Semenyo is extremely versatile and has proven he can play effectively across the front three.
However, they face stiff competition, with Liverpool considered the favorites to land him.
