Juventus have submitted a new proposal to Manchester United for Joshua Zirkzee, with the Netherlands forward reportedly favouring a move to Turin over joining Fiorentina. The Italian club have also contacted Newcastle United about Nick Woltemade as they consider an alternative option, while Jonathan David appears increasingly likely to leave for Atletico de Madrid.
Juventus are looking to sign at least one striker following the serious injury suffered by Kenan Yildiz. However, their immediate priority is understood to be completing negotiations that would send David to Atletico de Madrid on loan, with an option for the Spanish club to buy him permanently.
The departure of the Canada international would give Juventus the financial and squad space to pursue a forward who is considered a better fit for the footballing ideas of manager Luciano Spalletti.
Zirkzee has wanted to return to Serie A for several months. Several reports have suggested that he was delaying a possible move to Fiorentina because he hoped Juventus would eventually make an approach.
According to Sky Sport Italia, that approach has now arrived. Juventus have put forward a paid loan proposal for Zirkzee that would include an option to buy him for €30m.
The former Bologna forward is currently at Manchester United, but Juventus’ renewed interest could provide him with a route back to Italy. His preference for the Bianconeri is a setback for Fiorentina, who have also been pursuing him as they plan for the possible departure of Moise Kean.
Sky Sport Italia also reports that Juventus are preparing a contingency plan. The club have contacted Newcastle United to ask about the availability of Woltemade, who plays as a centre-forward for the Premier League side.
Woltemade has already attracted interest from Serie A this summer. Napoli were reported in recent days to have made an approach for the Newcastle United striker, meaning Juventus’ enquiry would add to the competition for his signature.
Despite that contact, Zirkzee remains Juventus’ clear first choice. The situation also has consequences for Fiorentina’s plans beyond their own search for a striker: they are unwilling to allow Kean to join Como until they have secured a replacement.
Juventus’ next move is therefore closely linked to David’s potential transfer to Atletico de Madrid. If that deal is completed, the club would be able to press ahead with their attempt to bring in Zirkzee, while keeping Woltemade in reserve should negotiations with Manchester United fail.
