Zirkzee Poised for January Exit as West Ham Take Pole Position in Transfer Pursuit

Written by Pavel Kateliev

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, | Updated: October 23, 2025

Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee

Key Takeaways:

Joshua Zirkzee will formally request to leave Manchester United during the January transfer window
West Ham currently lead the race to sign the Dutch international striker
United are considering both permanent and loan offers as Zirkzee seeks regular football

Striker Set to Seek Fresh Start Away from Old Trafford

Joshua Zirkzee plans to hand in a transfer request at Manchester United when the January window opens, amid mounting speculation over his future. West Ham are emerging as frontrunners to acquire the Dutch forward, who has endured a difficult stint following his £36m switch from Bologna during Erik ten Hag’s tenure.

Struggles at United and the Impact of New Arrivals

Zirkzee has found it challenging to establish himself at Old Trafford, attracting negative attention for his ongoing goal drought. The 24-year-old managed just seven goals in 49 matches across all competitions last season. Since then, this campaign has seen him make only four appearances, with his last Premier League goal for United coming ten months ago in December.

West Ham will move for Joshua Zirkzee in January.@PeteHall86 pic.twitter.com/76ED81CnO0
— Central (@WestHam_Central) October 22, 2025

Ruben Amorim has deemed Zirkzee surplus to his long-term requirements. The summer acquisitions of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko have pushed Zirkzee further down the attacking hierarchy, prompting the striker to assess his options in search of regular first-team football.

Transfer Window Scenarios and United’s Stance

Manchester United are understood to be open to proposals for Zirkzee during the January window. Alongside a permanent sale, the club are also considering loan arrangements for the remainder of the season, including provisions for a potential future transfer.

International Ambitions and Future Prospects

Zirkzee is conscious that his limited playing time could threaten his chances of earning a call-up to the Netherlands squad for the upcoming World Cup. Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has advised the forward that increased game time will be vital for national team consideration, assuming qualification for next summer’s tournament.

While Zirkzee is eager to remain in the Premier League, he remains open to options elsewhere in Europe should a parting of ways with Manchester United become necessary.