Farewell to a Manchester United star preparing to leave in January, with a new club confirmed and details of the contract and transfer fee revealed.
On 28 December 2025, Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Joshua Zirkzee, striker for Manchester United, the Premier League giant, has agreed to return to Italy's Serie A to play for Roma.
Joshua Zirkzee has not been a regular starter for Manchester United in the first 11 Premier League matches this season. He only got opportunities when Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha were both injured, but recently Zirkzee has returned to the bench after both players recovered.
Meanwhile, Joshua Zirkzee wants consistent playing time to boost his chances of being selected for the Netherlands national team for the 2026 World Cup finals. Gazzetta dello Sport revealed that he has agreed to Roma's offer.
Sources say Joshua Zirkzee spoke with Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini a few days ago before Manchester United's latest 1-0 win over Newcastle, and was assured he would have opportunities to start and play a key role in the team.
Additionally, the former Bologna striker also had discussions with Roma's management, including Sporting Director Frederic Massara, leading him to willingly accept the transfer.
Roma is confident the deal will be completed by mid-January, after Manchester United receives back Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon) and Ahmad Diallo (Ivory Coast) from their national teams following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which runs until 18 January. Joshua Zirkzee's contract will be a loan with an option to buy for 40 million euros after this season.
