Zirkzee transfer news: Major January move planned for 2026

Zirkzee transfer news: Milan eye January loan for United forward

AC Milan are reportedly preparing a fresh January approach for Joshua Zirkzee, with the player’s lack of regular playing time at Manchester United this season prompting the renewed interest. Italian outlet Calciomercato says the Rossoneri are weighing a loan deal with an option to buy when the winter window opens, viewing a temporary move as a low-risk way to bolster their attack.

Zirkzee’s recent form and international reminder

Zirkzee has not started a competitive match for Manchester United this season, featuring mainly as a substitute. Yet he made a notable impact for the Netherlands during the international pause, scoring the winner as the Dutch beat Serbia 2-1 in the Nations League.

His performance drew attention back home. Former Netherlands striker Wim Kieft told NOS after Zirkzee came on against Greece that it represented an improvement, highlighting the attacker’s technical ability and football intelligence as qualities that could influence United’s thinking on a potential loan.

Background: why Milan and Zirkzee are a plausible match

Zirkzee’s earlier stint in Italy with Bologna earned strong reviews, with many observers arguing he delivered some of his best football there. Milan have also previously shown interest in the forward, closing in on a deal before, which makes a January reunion in Serie A a credible scenario.

Reports indicate Milan prefer a loan with an option to buy. Such a structure would allow Milan to strengthen their forward options without committing to a permanent transfer up front, while giving Zirkzee a pathway to regain regular minutes and form.

Why Manchester United face a decision

United must balance the player’s development with the club’s current needs. Zirkzee has often shone when he drops deeper to link play, rather than occupying a traditional number nine role. While this skill set may suit certain systems, it does not always align with how United have lined up this season. His age and proven results at club and international level, however, mean that another year on the bench could hinder his progress.

If Michael Carrick sees a meaningful role for Zirkzee in the coming months, keeping him would make sense. If not, a move to Milan would offer regular minutes in Serie A and an opportunity to rebuild momentum in a familiar league.

What happens next

Negotiations between Manchester United and AC Milan are likely to continue in the coming weeks if interest persists. Any formal agreement will hinge on the loan terms, guarantees over playing time, and the fee for a future option to buy. For Zirkzee, securing regular football remains the priority, with a January move offering a direct route back to consistent starts and a chance to press for a place in the Netherlands squad.

Fans and observers should await official confirmation from the clubs or a direct statement from the player. At this stage, the report from Calciomercato is the primary source for Milan’s interest, with NOS cited for Wim Kieft’s comments.

Whether Zirkzee remains at United or heads to Milan will be a noteworthy subplot as the 2026 January transfer window approaches.

Source: Original report

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