MU will only allow Zirkzee to leave when two AFCON stars return

Zirkzee only joined in July 2024 from Bologna for £36.5M, but is set to move back to the Serie A after what has been a disastrous spell in the English top flight so far.

Having been unable to break into Ruben Amorim's starting XI on a regular basis, the Dutch striker is said to be desperate to leave in what has been a transfer saga that has been reported since the summer window.

Now, as reported by Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, United would only let Joshua Zirkzee depart the club in mid to late January, when Bryan Mbeumo and Amad will be back from AFCON.

This comes as Roma are also highly interested in Atletico Madrid's Giacomo Raspadori, which could theoretically block Zirkzee’s move as United continue to make what should be a simple move even harder for both sides.

The 24-year-old has only started in four of Manchester United’s 17 Premier League fixtures so far this season and if manager Ruben Amorim blocks his move in January, he is almost certain to leave at the end of the season as he seeks to rebuild his squad.