Manchester United are now preparing for Joshua Zirkzee to stay at the club beyond tonight’s transfer deadline.
As per BBC Sport’s Simon Stone, the ‘feeling currently is’ that the forward is ‘more likely’ to remain at Old Trafford.
Joshua Zirkzee: The state of play on deadline day
He adds that the situation could of course change, especially given that the window will stay open in a handful of countries after today.
However, facilitating any departure for Zirkzee after Tuesday means United would be unable to bring in a replacement.
Joshua Zirkzee, everybody 👏👏👏
🤳 @Snapdragon x #ShotOnSnapdragon pic.twitter.com/HaVg9adIZv
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 24, 2026
It goes without saying that depth across all areas of the squad is essential if the side is to have any chance at competing on all fronts this term, particularly when balancing Champions League fixtures against Europe’s most elite and dangerous clubs.
Zirkzee turned down a move to Fiorentina over the weekend, and they have since agreed a deal for Everton’s Beto.
The 25-year-old Red has been linked with Juventus since the start of the summer – even in the months leading up to the window opening – but they are on the verge of welcoming Newcastle United’s Nick Woltemade on loan instead.
Zirkzee still awaiting first minutes of 2026/2027
For the opening two fixtures of the campaign, Zirkzee was an unused substitute, though it remains to be seen if this was a tactical decision or because he was expected to depart.
| Appearances | Starts | Unused | Minutes played |
| 10 | 1 | 7 | 127 |
Zirkzee’s record since Michael Carrick was appointed
Either way, he does face an uphill battle for minutes once again this term, with the reintegration of counterpart Marcus Rashford likely to have a direct impact on the Dutchman’s opportunities.
United are next in action on Sunday, September 6, when they travel to take on the Toffees at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
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