Fiorentina Edge Ahead of Juventus in Pursuit of Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee

Key Takeaways:

• Fiorentina have moved closer than Juventus to securing a deal for Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee, according to the latest reports from Italy
• The 25-year-old forward made only five Premier League starts last season and was an unused substitute for Manchester United’s 2026-27 opener against Hull City last weekend
• Fiorentina have offered €5m for a loan with a €25m option to buy, while Juventus would need to sell Jonathan David before a move

Transfer Situation: Fiorentina and Juventus Target Zirkzee

Fiorentina and Juventus have both expressed a strong interest in bringing Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee back to Serie A. However, recent updates from Italy suggest that it is Fiorentina who are currently in pole position to secure the Dutch forward’s signature.

Manchester United’s Stance and Zirkzee’s Role

Manchester United appear open to offloading Zirkzee prior to the end of the summer transfer window. Over the past two years, the 25-year-old has struggled for regular first-team opportunities, making only five Premier League starts in the previous campaign. Zirkzee was left on the bench as an unused substitute during United’s opening league fixture of the 2026-27 season against Hull City, who have recently been promoted.

With Marcus Rashford having returned to Old Trafford following a loan at Barcelona, Zirkzee’s chances of breaking into the starting line-up have diminished further.

🚨🇳🇱 Fiorentina official bid for Joshua Zirkzee currently being assessed by Man United and player’s camp.

Zirkzee will decide his future soon; #mufc would receive €5m loan fee, salary covered and buy option clause. pic.twitter.com/O5ZpZ4ViH0

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2026

Bidding War: Fiorentina Hold the Advantage

Both Italian sides are looking to bolster their attacking options following Zirkzee’s impressive 2023-24 stint with Bologna, where he netted 11 Serie A goals. While Juventus are still interested in adding another forward, their pursuit is contingent on securing a transfer away for Jonathan David. In contrast, Fiorentina seek a replacement for Moise Kean, who is poised to join Champions League outfit Como for a fee of €40m.

Due to these circumstances, Fiorentina are currently better positioned to finalise an agreement with Manchester United. La Viola have presented a €5m offer to acquire Zirkzee on loan for the 2026-27 season, coupled with an option to buy for an additional €25m.

Contract Details and Negotiation Terms

Zirkzee remains under contract with Manchester United until the summer of 2029, leaving three more years on his current deal. Juventus’s interest remains dependent on outgoing transfers, whereas Fiorentina’s urgent need for a striker puts them at the front of the queue.