Man United Will Have A Hard Time Getting Hall
Manchester United still have work to do in the summer transfer window despite completing five signings, but one of their remaining priorities could prove particularly difficult to address. Newcastle United are reportedly unwilling to entertain the possibility of selling Lewis Hall, making the England international a challenging target for the Red Devils. The 21-year-old fits the profile United are looking for at left-back, with the position expected to be strengthened before the transfer window closes. Hall has emerged as one of the club’s preferred options, and Fabrizio Romano reports that United have internally approved the defender and view him as an ideal addition.
Newcastle have already raised significant funds this summer through the departures of Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali to Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur respectively, with those deals bringing in close to £170 million combined. Their recent income becomes even more substantial when the £125 million sale of Alexander Isak to Liverpool last summer is included. With Newcastle therefore under no immediate pressure to sell, Romano reports that the club’s current position is that Hall is not available. United remain very keen on the player and are continuing to monitor his situation, but convincing Newcastle to change their stance could require a substantial offer. For now, the Premier League club appear to have the upper hand.
Spalletti Aproves Zirkzee Signing
Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has reportedly given his approval to a move for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee as the Italian club consider adding another forward before the transfer deadline. According to Corriere dello Sport, Juventus are close to completing the return of Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani but remain interested in bringing in another high-profile centre-forward. Zirkzee has emerged as one of their leading options, with Spalletti understood to appreciate the Dutchman’s versatility and technical profile.
Juventus technical director Frederic Massara also has an existing relationship with Zirkzee’s camp. During his time as Roma’s sporting director, Massara reached an agreement with the player’s representatives last winter, only for United to ultimately block the move. The situation could be different this time. Zirkzee is reportedly keen on returning to Serie A after previously missing out on a move to Roma, while Juventus are considering a season-long loan with an option to buy. The 25-year-old has remained on the fringes at Old Trafford since joining from Bologna for around £36 million two years ago. His return of just five goals in 56 Premier League appearances has done little to establish him as a regular first-team option.
United would ideally like to strengthen their attack further and provide Benjamin Sesko with genuine competition, but Zirkzee’s departure could be an important part of making that possible. Juventus currently appear to be the club showing the strongest interest, although their proposed structure does not necessarily match United’s preferred terms. The Red Devils would like to avoid simply sending Zirkzee out on another loan and could accept a deal that includes an eventual mandatory purchase. Reports suggest they may be prepared to settle for between £26 million and £30 million if that arrangement guarantees a permanent departure.
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