Manchester United discuss shock Joshua Zirkzee swap deal

Manchester United’s current rebuild has exposed two persistent weaknesses, with attacking inconsistency and defensive fragility continuing to undermine Ruben Amorim’s plans.

Joshua Zirkzee’s time at Old Trafford has been underwhelming since his arrival from Bologna, marked by limited goals, reduced influence, and clear signs that Amorim does not see him as part of the long-term project.

The Dutch forward’s struggles, combined with concrete interest from Roma, have made a summer exit increasingly realistic rather than speculative.

United’s problems are not confined to the frontline, as the centre-back situation has become a growing concern amid injuries and contract uncertainty.

Harry Maguire is approaching the final year of his deal, Matthijs de Ligt has struggled for consistent availability, and Luke Shaw’s recurring use at centre-back highlights a lack of specialist depth.

Those defensive shortcomings have contributed to United conceding regularly this season, rarely looking settled when rotation is required.

As a result, United have quietly expanded their transfer discussions with Roma beyond Zirkzee to explore defensive reinforcements for next season.

According to AS Roma Live, Manchester United have included Ndicka on their internal shortlist of defensive targets, even if he is not currently the club’s top priority.

Roma recently conceded more than one league goal for the first time this campaign, with the absence of their key left-footed centre-back widely seen as a major factor.

Evan Ndicka has become a cornerstone of Roma’s back line since arriving on a free transfer in the summer of 2023.

Now 26, Ndicka is under contract until June 30, 2028, and is valued in the region of €40–45 million as his reputation continues to rise.

Exploratory discussions around the defender reportedly took place during talks with Roma over Zirkzee, reflecting United’s broader planning for June.

Manchester United have conceded 28 Premier League goals in 18 matches this season, placing them around the lower mid-table (approximately 14th) for goals conceded, a defensive return that highlights ongoing structural issues at the back and explains why centre-back reinforcements are a priority under Ruben Amorim.

With Amorim focused on reshaping both ends of the pitch, a scenario where Zirkzee’s future and Ndicka’s availability become linked later in the year cannot be ruled out.