Leeds test Man United’s resolve with audacious January move for Joshua Zirkzee

Leeds United are chancing their arm in the New Year market, making contact over a surprise move for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee. Brave? Absolutely. Realistic? That’s another matter.

Leeds enquire as West Ham join the queue

Reports from Italy suggest both Leeds and West Ham have asked the question on Zirkzee’s availability ahead of January. Credit where it’s due — Daniel Farke wants more bite up top and he’s not shy about targeting pedigree. But they’re not alone: Roma and AC Milan are circling, and that’s where the plot thickens.

Why Italy beckons for Zirkzee

Word is the Dutch forward isn’t itching to swap one bench for a relegation scrap in the Premier League. A return to Serie A appeals, and you can see why. He impressed at Bologna, and Roma in particular are pushing hardest after initial talks with United. Milan, too, are monitoring the situation. If it comes down to heart and head, the smart money says Italy.

His United reality: flashes, not a run

Zirkzee arrived from Bologna in the summer of 2024, and under Ruben Amorim he’s struggled for meaningful minutes — just three starts and six outings from the bench this season. He’s managed one league goal this term, the winner in a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace last month, before dropping back to the bench for the 4-1 win at Wolves. Since joining United he’s produced eight goals and three assists, but the sample size remains patchy.

He’s tied down at Old Trafford until June 2029 and is understood to be on around £130,000 per week, so any permanent deal would need serious funding or a creative loan. United won’t be rushed unless the move suits all parties.

Roma and Milan smell an opportunity

Il Messaggero report that Roma have stepped up their interest, with Milan not far behind. The forward’s history in Serie A — 14 goals and nine assists in 58 appearances for Bologna — gives both clubs confidence he’d hit the ground running. For Leeds, that’s a daunting tug-of-war to win.

Leeds’ Plan B: Hauge on the radar

Leeds aren’t putting all their eggs in one basket. Bodo/Glimt’s Jens-Petter Hauge is a live option, with the Norwegian posting 11 goals and nine assists in 38 appearances this season, plus three in the Champions League — including strikes in draws with Borussia Dortmund and Tottenham. He’s open to a January switch, and stylistically he fits Farke’s front-foot approach.

Pundit’s verdict

Ambition is admirable and Leeds deserve credit for asking the question on Zirkzee, but Serie A suitors and United’s leverage make this a long shot. Hauge looks the more attainable play and could add guile and goals from wide areas. If Leeds land either, it’s a clear upgrade for a promotion push — but don’t be shocked if Zirkzee’s next stop has pasta on the menu.

If you’re weighing the odds on January movers, our guide to the best betting sites is a handy companion before the window creaks open.