Man United shut door on January exit for Joshua Zirkzee after Amorim departure

Manchester United have shut the door on any potential January departure for Joshua Zirkzee, a move that has significantly disrupted Roma’s transfer plans following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim. The Dutch striker had been open to leaving Old Trafford earlier this month after falling out of favour under Amorim, who was sacked by United’s hierarchy earlier this week. Roma had identified Zirkzee as a key attacking target and believed the instability surrounding United’s managerial situation could give them an advantage in negotiations.

However, that hope has now faded. Roma sporting director Ricky Massara has admitted that United’s position changed dramatically after Amorim’s exit, making a winter move for Zirkzee highly unlikely.

“Manchester United have closed all doors now with the managerial change. It looks highly unlikely to sign Zirkzee.”, Massara said. 

Amorim’s tenure came to an end following a turbulent spell, culminating in a controversial draw against Leeds in which he publicly criticised the club’s hierarchy. Darren Fletcher has since been appointed caretaker manager as United search for an interim head coach to see out the remainder of the season.

Zirkzee struggled to secure regular minutes under Amorim. Despite flashes of quality, he was often used sparingly, leading to growing frustration and renewed interest from Serie A clubs eager to offer him a more central role.

With Amorim no longer in charge, United appear reluctant to weaken their squad midway through a transitional period. Blocking Zirkzee’s exit suggests a desire to preserve attacking depth while the club reassesses its options under interim management.

For Roma, the setback has forced a swift rethink. The Italian side are actively searching for a new forward after a season marked by inefficiency in front of goal, and Massara has stressed the importance of making the most of the January window.

As Zirkzee slips out of reach, Roma have shifted their focus to alternative targets. Massara confirmed that negotiations are ongoing for Atletico Madrid forward Giacomo Raspadori, though talks remain complicated due to scheduling conflicts linked to the Spanish Super Cup.

Zirkzee’s case reflects the wider uncertainty faced by several United players whose roles diminished under Amorim, including academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo. Fletcher, however, has sought to downplay speculation around the midfielder’s future, insisting he remains settled and positive. As United attempt to stabilise following Amorim’s departure, the decision to retain Zirkzee could prove crucial in maintaining balance within a squad still searching for direction during a turbulent campaign.