Second Man Utd star decides to leave Old Trafford this summer

Second Man Utd star decides to leave Old Trafford this summer Tony Mogan Published March 11, 2026 7:27pm Updated March 11, 2026 7:28pm Share this article via whatsappShare this article via xCopy the link to this article.Link is copiedShare this article via facebook Comment now Comments Plenty of movement is expected at Old Trafford this summer (Picture: Getty)

Joshua Zirkzee will look to leave Manchester United this summer having failed to force his way into Michael Carrick’s team.

The Netherlands international, a £36million signing from Bologna 18 months ago, has started just four matches in all competitions this season.

The forward did enjoy a brief run in the side when Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko were ruled out injured in November and December.

But minutes have dried up since, with his last start for the club coming in Ruben Amorim’s penultimate game in charge at the end of December – a game where he was replaced at half-time.

Zirkzee was said to be considering a move in January with Amorim’s departure and subsequent appointment of Carrick shelving any incoming or outgoing business in January.

But with his prospects looking no better under Carrick who is the favourite to get the permanent United job at the end of the campaign, an exit again appears to be on the cards.

The Sun report Zirkzee is now looking towards a summer move with a return to Italy one possible option.

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Zirkzee’s struggles have continued under Carrick (Picture: Getty)

The 24-year-old, who has nine goals in 69 United appearances, has failed to impress in a traditional no9 when called upon with Benjamin Sesko now firm first choice leading the line.

In deeper roles, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have been more prolific options with Bruno Fernandes also back in his preferred role behind the striker under Carrick.

Casemiro has already confirmed he is moving on (Picture: Getty Images)

There are expected to plenty of major departures at Old Trafford this summer with Casemiro having already confirmed his decision to leave when his contract expires at the end of the club.

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Replacing the Brazil international in midfield will be a top priority for United with Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson two options under consideration.

Harry Maguire is another who has entered the final months of his contract but United remain in talks with the player over a new deal.

Elsewhere, Jadon Sancho will leave when his contract expires with Marcus Rashford expected to seal a permanent move to Barcelona after a season on loan in Spain.

Likewise, Rasmus Hojlund is set to join Napoli permanently if the Serie A side qualify for the Champions League.   

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