Everton Keen to Secure Zirkzee as United Outcast Eyes Exit
Everton are looking to get ahead of several clubs competing for Joshua Zirkzee, with the Manchester United forward increasingly likely to push for a January move after a frustrating start to the season.
Ruben Amorim and United officials are believed to want to keep hold of the Dutchman, but his lack of playing time has become difficult to ignore. Zirkzee has yet to start a match in the Premier League or the Carabao Cup this term, having featured only three times in the league and collected a total of just 74 minutes. With Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo all ahead of him in the pecking order, opportunities have been scarce.
His motivation to leave reportedly stems from his ambition to return to the Netherlands national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 23-year-old has six international caps but has not featured since November 2024. Journalist Pete O’Rourke told Football Insider that if United give the green light for a January departure, many clubs will be keen to make a move. He explained that Zirkzee’s limited role was always expected given the competition for the number nine spot, and that the forward’s frustration could lead him to seek a fresh start.
Interest remains strong in Italy, particularly from Juventus and Como, where Zirkzee previously impressed in Serie A. Everton are also thought to be monitoring his situation closely, as current forwards Beto and Arnaut Danjuma have struggled to make an impact. O’Rourke suggested that the Toffees could see Zirkzee as an ideal addition once the window opens, with several sides likely to compete for his signature if United decide to sell.
United Join Race for Ukrainian Talent
Manchester United are also tracking Dynamo Kyiv’s Taras Mykhavko, with the 20-year-old centre-back attracting interest from multiple Premier League clubs. Mykhavko, considered one of the brightest defensive prospects in Eastern Europe, is reportedly being monitored by United, Liverpool and Chelsea.
Graeme Bailey told TBR that scouts view Mykhavko as ready for a move to a top European league, noting how Ukrainian players have adapted well to English football in recent years. Any deal, however, would not be straightforward, with significant competition expected.
The young defender’s next move may depend on which club offers him a clear development plan and consistent first-team opportunities. With United, Liverpool and Chelsea all possessing the resources to complete the transfer, the decision will likely rest on Mykhavko’s long-term ambitions and the trust he places in each project.