Joshua Zirkzee remains a target for both Juventus and Napoli this summer, with the Manchester United forward’s next move likely to depend on which club can first create room in its attack.
The Dutchman appeared close to joining Juventus until only a few days ago, but Napoli have now entered the race as Manchester United consider allowing him to leave on loan. The proposed arrangement would not include firm guarantees over an obligation to buy, meaning either Italian club would largely be responsible only for covering Zirkzee’s wages.
Juventus have the player’s full approval for a move to Turin. However, the club must first reduce the number of forwards already available to manager Luciano Spalletti.
Their attacking options currently include Randal Kolo Muani, Jonathan David, Arkadiusz Milik and Jeff Ekhator. Of that group, David is considered the most likely to depart because he has not been given a role under Spalletti.
There is also a question over whether Zirkzee would fit Juventus’ tactical requirements. Spalletti wants a traditional number nine capable of operating as a genuine penalty-box striker, whereas Zirkzee is more comfortable dropping into deeper positions and contributing to the build-up through his link play.
That difference in style could influence whether Juventus ultimately decide to proceed, even though Zirkzee is happy with the prospect of moving to the club.
Napoli face a similar obstacle before they can make a serious move. They need to sell a player first, with Noa Lang currently the most likely departure, before creating space for another forward.
Zirkzee is not Napoli’s preferred option at this stage. Their first choice is Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus, although his wages are viewed as too expensive. Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson is also being considered.
As a result, Zirkzee currently appears to be a fallback option for Napoli rather than the club’s main attacking target. His availability on loan could nevertheless keep him in the conversation if Napoli are unable to secure their preferred targets or complete a departure from their existing forward line.
The situation leaves the Netherlands international’s future dependent on a series of decisions at both clubs. Juventus must determine whether one of their current forwards can leave and whether Zirkzee’s movement away from the penalty area suits Spalletti’s plans. Napoli, meanwhile, must make space in their squad and assess whether a deal for Gabriel Jesus or Nicolas Jackson is financially possible.
Manchester United’s willingness to consider a loan without a guaranteed purchase commitment means either club could potentially sign Zirkzee without taking on the full cost of a permanent transfer immediately. For now, however, neither Juventus nor Napoli has cleared the conditions required to turn interest into an agreement.
