Inter Milan have emerged as serious contenders to sign Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee this summer, with a loan deal on the table following the Dutchman’s difficult first season at Old Trafford.
Zirkzee to Inter? Serie A Return on the Cards
Joshua Zirkzee is firmly back on the radar of top Serie A clubs, with Inter now leading the chase to sign the 23-year-old forward after a disappointing year at Manchester United.
The Dutch striker, who made his name in Italy with Bologna before sealing a €40 million move to United last summer, has struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League. Just seven goals in 48 appearances across all competitions have left his future in doubt.
Inter are reportedly ready to offer Zirkzee a fresh start — and a familiar environment — as they look to reshape their attack ahead of next season.
Zirkzee’s not the only Premier League player they are keeping tabs on, with Inter plotting a summer bid for Arsenal star Jakub Kiwior.
Inter Plan Loan With Option to Buy for Zirkzee
According to Corriere dello Sport, Inter intend to propose a loan deal with an option to buy, which could become an obligation under certain conditions.
With Manchester United already pursuing new attacking reinforcements — including a deal for Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, which Fabrizio Romano says is at an “advanced stage” — the Red Devils may be open to letting Zirkzee go.
United’s goal-scoring woes have been well documented. Only four Premier League clubs have found the net less often this season, with Zirkzee and fellow forward Rasmus Højlund combining for just seven league goals.
Why Inter Want Zirkzee
Despite his underwhelming return in England, Inter believe Zirkzee’s blend of flair, physicality, and technical skill makes him a perfect fit for Simone Inzaghi’s side.
Zirkzee has proven himself in Serie A before, and the Nerazzurri are looking for depth behind Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, especially with both Joquin Correa and Marko Arnautovic expected to leave.
His relatively modest salary and reduced valuation — after a disappointing campaign — also make the deal financially feasible. Inter hope United’s willingness to recoup some of their €40m outlay will help them negotiate terms.
Is Zirkzee Leaving Man Utd?
Speculation surrounding Zirkzee’s future began as early as January. At the time, The Athletic’s David Ornstein reported that some inside United were beginning to question whether the Bologna signing had been a mistake.
Although Zirkzee has publicly remained committed to fighting for his place, the shift in United’s transfer strategy under INEOS may see him moved on sooner rather than later.
If Zirkzee does leave, he would join a growing list of players expected to be offloaded by Manchester United this summer.
