Joshua Zirkzee, the struggling player from Manchester United, is reportedly considering a departure from his current team to reunite with former manager Thiago Motta at Juventus.

Zirkzee, 23, has only found the net once in 18 appearances following his £36.5 million move from Bologna last summer.

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The Dutch forward has struggled to secure a regular position in United’s starting lineup under different coaches, including Erik ten Hag and Ruud van Nistelrooy, while new manager Ruben Amorim has also expressed his discontent following recent criticism.

According to La Gazzetta, Zirkzee is contemplating a return to Italy as early as January.

Before joining Old Trafford, the forward netted 14 times in 53 matches with Bologna.

Although not especially prolific, Zirkzee was recognized for his ability to link up play, aiding Bologna’s acquisition of a Champions League spot last season.

During his two-year tenure at the club, he worked under the guidance of former Barcelona, Inter Milan, and PSG player Motta, who is now managing Juventus.

Reports suggest that Zirkzee is eager to make a move to Turin to join Motta in the upcoming year.

Juventus is said to be eager to finalize a deal following their unbeaten run in Serie A.

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The club hopes to secure a loan arrangement with United for the rest of the season, potentially exploring a permanent transfer next summer.

Ruben Amorim moved by Old Trafford’s warm welcome in win over Bodo/Glimt

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For United to agree to such a transfer, they will likely need to find a replacement first.

The club’s recent transfer maneuvers have been constrained by PSR and FFP regulations.

This suggests that United may only be able to seek a temporary striker, a challenging endeavor in the current marketplace.

Nonetheless, Amorim’s dissatisfaction with Zirkzee’s performance could present a chance for him to acquire a player he desires.

Following his managerial debut, a 1-1 draw against Ipswich, Amorim expressed concerns regarding Zirkzee’s understanding of the No9 role.

Amorim remarked: “Decision-making is vital; at this level, players shouldn’t require specialized coaching for fundamental skills. You must retain possession and know when to advance the ball. In crucial situations, particularly late in the game, Josh should position himself for potential crosses.”

Ten Hag’s Man Utd Signings

Since his arrival at Old Trafford in 2022, the Dutch manager has added 21 players to the roster.

2022-23:

Antony, (Ajax) £86m

Casemiro, (Real Madrid) £70m

Lisandro Martinez, (Ajax) £46m

Tyrell Malacia, (Feyenoord) £13m

Christian Eriksen, (Brentford) free

Martin Dubravka, (Newcastle) loan

Wout Weghorst, (Burnley) loan

Jack Butland, (Crystal Palace) loan

Marcel Sabitzer, (Bayern Munich) loan

2023-24:

Rasmus Hojlund, (Atalanta) £72m

Mason Mount, (Chelsea) £60m

Andre Onana, (Inter Milan) £47m

Sofyan Amrabat, (Fiorentina) loan

Altay Bayindir, (Fenerbahce) £4.3m

Jonny Evans, (Leicester) free

Sergio Reguilon, (Tottenham) loan

2024-25:

Leny Yoro, (Lille) £52m

Manuel Ugarte, (Paris Saint-Germain) £50m

Matthijs de Ligt, (Bayern Munich) £45m

Joshua Zirkzee, (Bologna) £36.5m

Noussair Mazraoui, (Bayern Munich) £12.8m