24yo Man United man ready to 'fight for his place' amid PL transfer interest

Manchester United star Joshua Zirkzee faces an uncertain future after a challenging start to the 2025-26 season.

Zirkzee has managed just 82 minutes across four appearances, one of the lowest tallies in the entire United squad.

While several fringe players were handed rare starts against Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup, Zirkzee was left waiting in the wings, getting only eight minutes to make an impression.

Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano has now dropped the latest update on Zirkzee’s future.

He said on his YouTube channel: “Joshua Zirkzee wants to fight for his place at Manchester United. He is not happy about the current game time, but that doesn’t mean he is unhappy with United.

“West Ham have shown some interest in Joshua Zirkzee, but it’s nothing as advanced as discussing a deal.”

United cannot allow Zirkzee to leave mid-season

The Red Devils chose to back Zirkzee over Rasmus Hojlund in the summer and now must stick to their decision.

The 24-year-old has played far less than expected, but that is more to do with Amorim’s use of Mason Mount and Benjamin Sesko.

Mount played well as a false nine at the start of the campaign, allowing Sesko crucial time to adapt to the new conditions.

The elimination from the Carabao Cup has left United playing just one game per week until the middle of December.

We believe Zirkzee may get his opportunity to thrive only after the commencement of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Both Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo are expected to be on international duty and could miss up to six matches between December and January.

Zirkzee could be used as one of the number tens behind Sesko, who could be given a long rope as a centre-forward.

It is understandable that Zirkzee wants to play more, especially keeping the World Cup 2026 in mind.

However, United are in no position to let him go in January without a reliable replacement lined up.

If Zirkzee were to leave, 17-year-old Chido Obi would be the only recognised striker left to compete with Sesko.

Obi made eight appearances under Amorim last season, but has failed to make a single matchday squad this term.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .