Joshua Zirkzee celebrates with Lisandro Martinez (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly in the midst of a loan battle with Roma, with a final decision expected to be made soon.
Goal reports that the Red Devils recently said ‘no’ to Zirkzee, according to Roma’s director of football Frederic Massara.
However, Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg posted an update on X, suggesting the Dutch international could still leave amid interest from Roma and other clubs.
It is said that a “concrete” investigation has been carried out against Zirkzee, whose future could still move away from Old Trafford this month, so see below for more information.
Florian Plettenberg talks about Joshua Zirkzee’s possible loan move to Roma
“AS Roma and several other clubs continue to compete for Joshua.” #jirkzee. A specific investigation into the loan transactions is underway,” Plettenberg said.
“A final decision is expected to be made soon, as Zirksee also wants to regain consciousness. He has recently suffered a slight bruise, but he should be fully recovered by next week at the latest.”
The delay in Zirksee’s departure appears to have been due to what Plettenberg described as a “minor injury”, and his return to full fitness will likely be key to determining his future.
Joshua Zirkzee’s return to Serie A could work out after Manchester United’s struggles
Zirksee looked like an exciting young talent at his former club Bologna, but it’s clear he still doesn’t have what it takes to play for a top Premier League side like Manchester United.
A return to Serie A with Roma could be ideal to revive the 24-year-old’s career, so he will no doubt be hoping to get the chance to move on.
With the 2026 World Cup looming, Zirksee may have a chance to break into the Dutch national team, but spending the next few months warming the bench at Old Trafford will make that much harder for him.

