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Manchester United forward wanted by two European clubs
Joshua Zirkzee. Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Manchester United forward wanted by two European clubs

Manchester United's search for a new striker has been a hot topic throughout the summer. Of course, the addition of Benjamin Sesko has ended that search and given Ruben Amorim a potential star striker. 

Nevertheless, Sesko's arrival has led to some new questions. Most notably, what the future holds for Rasmus Hojlund after he struggled leading the line last season. The 22-year-old scored just four Premier League goals in 23 appearances, registering no assists along the way. 

Yet, it would appear that Joshua Zirkzee is also a potential candidate to move ahead of the transfer window slamming shut. Zirkzee was a new arrival last season, having impressed for Bologna with 11 goals and four assists in 34 Serie A outings. 

Like Hojlund, Zirkzee struggled to make an impact last term. However, his movement off the ball and link-up play provided some encouraging signs for the future. 

According to CaughtOffside, United may be open to a loan deal, allowing Zirkzee to continue developing with a larger role elsewhere on the continent. That stance has reportedly alerted Napoli and PSV Eindhoven.

"Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that PSV see Zirkzee as the perfect candidate and are preparing to open talks with Man United over a potential loan deal," Ahad Shaukat reported. "Amorim has publicly insisted that he values Zirkzee as part of his squad, but United are not ruling out a loan if it guarantees the striker regular minutes. That stance has encouraged both PSV and Napoli, who are circling as the transfer deadline approaches."

United has revamped its forward line over the past few months. Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have all joined the club. Therefore, Zirkzee's minutes could be limited. 

A move to Holland or Italy would ensure the young forward gets the playing time he needs to develop, without United cutting ties with a high-potential prospect. 

If Amorim is confident with the depth of his attacking options, even with a potential departure for Hojlund, then sending Zirkzee out on loan is an ideal scenario, both for him and the club. 

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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