Latest developments
- Joshua Zirkzee has been linked with a move away from Manchester United.
- The Netherlands international has struggled to replicate his Bologna form in England.
- United have reportedly set their sights on Randal Kolo Muani to solve their goalscoring woes.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Italian newspaper shines light on Zirkzee's mood
It has emerged that Manchester United are interested in signing Randal Kolo Muani, who has fallen out of favour at Paris Saint-Germain. Meanwhile, the Red Devils may part ways with summer signing Joshua Zirkzee, who continues to underwhelm.
The suggestion of the Dutchman's exit comes from La Gazzetta, who says the striker is keen on reuniting with his former manager Thiago Motta in Italy.
Value (4/5): Opportunity to upgrade attack without spending much
It is understood that PSG would be open to listening to loan offers for their French forward. Further, Zirkzee, who only moved to United just a few months ago, is also expected to leave on a temporary basis, with any suitor unlikely to pay the £36.5m fee that the Premier League outfit paid to Bologna for his services.
As such, two loan deals would allow United to improve their attack without making a dent on their transfer budget.
Suitability (3.5/5): Kolo Muani is decisive
Zirkzee appears too slow for English football, owing to his lack of intensity and decisiveness. Meanwhile, the France international, who is capable of playing across the frontline, has pace, dribbling ability and sharpness to make a difference in Ruben Amorim's narrow attack.
Upgrade? (4/5): More experienced, more prolific
United's decision to sign Zirkzee in the summer raised many eyebrows, as in his supposed best season, the Dutchman had just 12 goals to his name – an underwhelming return for a club of the size of the Mancunian giants.
Meanwhile, Kolo Muani has shown many times that he is a prolific attacker. During the 2022/23 campaign, he scored 23 goals and registered 17 assists across all competitions for Eintracht Frankfurt. The 26-year-old has also done well for France.
Logic (4/5): Best for both players
Zirkzee is still a highly-rated prospect, and he is appreciated for his technical prowess. Kolo Muani may have failed to impress Luis Enrique, but in the right setup, he is capable of running riot in the final third. Accordingly, both players may rediscover their best form under managers who understand their qualities better.
Whisper+ verdict: 18.5/25
On paper, Zirkzee departing United and freeing up space for Kolo Muani makes a lot of sense. However, there are always too many boxes to tick when clubs are trying to do multiple deals.
