Terrible news hits Manchester United as major European club has reportedly initiated discussions with a Manchester United player who recently faced criticism from Ruben Amorim following United’s draw with Ipswich. The player’s performance in that match has sparked interest as transfer rumors circulate.

Juventus have reportedly initiated contact with Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee ahead of the upcoming January transfer window.

Zirkzee, who joined United last summer with high expectations following an impressive stint at Bologna, has struggled to adapt to the demands of the Premier League. Limited game time under former manager Erik ten Hag has only fueled speculation about his future. Under new manager Ruben Amorim, those doubts have intensified.

In Amorim’s debut match, Zirkzee was benched as Marcus Rashford started as the central striker against Ipswich Town, with Rasmus Hojlund also left out of the starting lineup. Zirkzee entered the match in the 68th minute but faced criticism from Amorim for not being assertive enough in attacking areas.

According to Corriere dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Juventus is leading the race to sign the 23-year-old Dutch forward. The Italian side, now managed by Thiago Motta—who previously coached Zirkzee at Bologna—may be eager to reunite with the striker, despite needing to adjust their setup to accommodate him. Reports suggest initial discussions between Juventus and Zirkzee have already taken place.

With Amorim favoring Rashford and seemingly leaning on Hojlund’s pace and physicality, Zirkzee’s frustrations could push him closer to an exit. Meanwhile, Manchester United has reportedly been exploring options for reinforcements, including Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres and Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface.