Manchester United and Juventus are reportedly exploring a swap deal involving Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee and Serbian forward Dusan Vlahovic, potentially resolving a financial impasse in the January transfer window.
Zirkzee, who joined Manchester United from Bologna in a high-profile transfer last summer, has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford.
His lack of form and recent exclusion from manager Ruben Amorim’s plans were evident when he was substituted after just 30 minutes in a match against Newcastle United. This incident marked a turning point, indicating the player’s imminent departure.
Juventus has maintained a longstanding interest in Zirkzee, bolstered by the fact that he thrived under Thiago Motta’s management during their time together at Bologna. Motta, now at the helm of Juventus, sees the Dutch striker as a valuable addition to the team.
However, Juventus’ initial proposal a loan deal with clauses has not met Manchester United’s expectations, as the English club seeks to recoup their substantial investment in Zirkzee.
According to journalist Enrico Camelio, the two clubs are now considering a direct player swap involving Zirkzee and Vlahovic. Speaking to Radio Radio, Camelio described the arrangement as a “plausible” solution that could benefit all parties.
“We understand that the footballer (Zirkzee) is not at all happy in Manchester, he has not settled in and is not doing well,” Camelio explained.
“In Italy, he had done well in Parma and then very well in Bologna, precisely with Motta. We are working on it, but there is an idea of an exchange between Vlahovic and Zirkzee. Let’s see how the situation evolves.”
For Zirkzee, the swap would mean reuniting with Motta, a coach who played a significant role in his development. Meanwhile, Vlahovic, who has been linked with a move away from Juventus, could bolster Manchester United’s attack with his proven goal-scoring abilities.
The proposed swap deal remains in its early stages, and further negotiations are expected in the coming weeks. If successful, this transaction could reshape the attacking options for both Manchester United and Juventus while addressing their immediate needs in the transfer market.
