Manchester United are reportedly considering a dramatic swap deal involving Joshua Zirkzee, following his underwhelming start at Old Trafford. If completed, this move could mark a significant change in United’s approach to solving their attacking issues and securing a proven goalscorer.
Zirkzee joined Manchester United in the summer for a hefty £34 million from Bologna, signing a five-year contract that highlighted the club’s confidence in his potential. Initially seen as a complement to Rasmus Højlund, the duo was expected to form a dynamic partnership in United’s attack. Zirkzee made an immediate impact, scoring a late winner on his debut against Fulham. However, his form quickly dipped, and he has failed to score in his next 15 appearances, leading to growing speculation about his future at the club.
With the recent appointment of Ruben Amorim as manager, there is hope that Zirkzee could get a fresh start under new leadership. Amorim’s arrival has brought renewed optimism, and it is possible that Zirkzee could benefit from a clean slate. However, reports indicate that Manchester United might already be considering parting ways with the young striker, potentially using him as part of a swap deal to land Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.
According to *Il Mattino* and *Get Football News Italy*, United have reportedly proposed offering Zirkzee in exchange for Osimhen. The Nigerian forward’s situation at Napoli has been tumultuous this season. After being stripped of his No. 9 shirt and falling out of favor with manager Antonio Conte, Osimhen was loaned to Galatasaray, where he has regained his form, scoring eight goals in nine appearances. This resurgence has fueled speculation about his availability, especially since his loan agreement reportedly includes a clause allowing him to leave in January if a top European club makes an offer.
For Manchester United, Osimhen represents an ideal solution to their attacking woes. The Nigerian international has a proven track record, notably helping Napoli secure the Serie A title last season. His pace, power, and clinical finishing make him a perfect fit for United’s frontline alongside Højlund. A swap deal could also benefit Napoli, as Zirkzee, despite struggling at United, is still a young forward with significant potential. Napoli might see him as a long-term project who could flourish in a less demanding environment under Conte.
This potential swap deal highlights United’s urgent need to strengthen their attacking options. With the team struggling to convert chances and maintain consistency in front of goal, acquiring a striker of Osimhen’s caliber could be transformative. However, it also raises questions about United’s recruitment strategy, especially given their recent investment in Zirkzee only to consider moving him on after just a few months.
Though the swap deal remains speculative, its potential impact is significant. If United successfully land Osimhen, it could provide the firepower needed to rejuvenate their season. Meanwhile, Napoli would gain a promising young forward in Zirkzee, potentially reshaping their attack around him. As January approaches, this high-profile negotiation could be a defining moment for both clubs.
