Manchester United’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, has expressed a strong preference to retain Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee for the upcoming season, citing the 24-year-old’s versatility and potential for growth, according to club sources.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United have emerged as the frontrunner to secure a one-year loan deal for Marcus Rashford, who is no longer part of Amorim’s plans at Old Trafford, though United prefer a permanent transfer.
Zirkzee, who joined Manchester United from Bologna for £36.5 million last summer, has struggled to cement a starting role, scoring five goals in 29 Premier League appearances during the 2024-25 season.
Despite his modest output, Amorim values Zirkzee’s ability to play as both a traditional striker and a number 10, offering tactical flexibility in his preferred 3-4-3 system. “Joshua has unique qualities,” a source close to Amorim told The Athletic.
“He can drop deep, link play, and still be a threat in the box. Ruben believes he can unlock his potential next season.”
Club insiders are optimistic that Zirkzee, with a full pre-season under Amorim, can showcase the form that saw him score 11 Serie A goals in 2022-23.
The decision to back Zirkzee raises questions about United’s striker recruitment strategy, particularly with Rasmus Højlund already in the squad.
The 22-year-old Dane, signed for £72 million in 2023, has scored eight goals this season but shares a similar physical, high-pressing profile with Zirkzee.
Should United pursue a new striker, sources indicate they would target a player with complementary attributes, such as a more creative or experienced forward, rather than a like-for-like replacement.
In contrast, Marcus Rashford’s future at United appears bleak. The 29-year-old academy graduate, who has scored just four goals in 25 appearances this season, is not part of Amorim’s long-term vision.
Newcastle United have proposed a one-year loan deal, offering to share Rashford’s £325,000-per-week wages to bolster their attacking depth amid injuries to Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.
Manchester United, however, are pushing for a permanent sale, valuing Rashford at £40 million, though his recent form and high salary have deterred suitors. Talks between the clubs are ongoing, with Newcastle hopeful of finalizing a deal before the summer transfer window closes.
