Inter Milan Eyeing Move to Sign £40m Manchester United Star

Yahoo

15-05-2025

Zirkzee to Inter? Serie A Move Could Signal Turning Point in United Striker's Career
Joshua Zirkzee arrived at Manchester United with promise, flair and a £40 million price tag. A season later, the Dutch forward finds himself on the fringes of the squad, having scored just 7 goals in 48 appearances. With frequent spells on the bench and question marks over his impact, it's little surprise to see his name surface again in the transfer columns.
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According to Corriere Dello Sport, Inter Milan are considering a move for Zirkzee this summer. The Italian outlet notes that, 'after this disappointing year (just 7 goals in 48 appearances with a lot of benching), the Dutchman needs to relaunch himself.'
Serie A, a league he knows well from his time at Bologna, could provide just the stage for that reset. Inter, fresh from another dominant domestic campaign and recognised now as a regular feature in the Champions League, present an enticing destination.
Should United fail to defeat Tottenham in the Europa League final on 22 May, they would also miss out on Champions League qualification — weakening their bargaining position further.
Photo: IMAGO
Inter's Strategy: Smart, Scalable, Sensible
Inter's proposal is a loan with an option to buy — a model the Nerazzurri have used successfully in the past. As reported by Corriere Dello Sport, 'The idea of the Nerazzurri club, however, is to propose to United a loan with the right to buy, which, perhaps, under certain conditions, could turn into an obligation.'
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It's a pragmatic approach. Zirkzee's salary — £3.5 million per season plus bonuses — wouldn't stretch Inter's wage bill, and the initial outlay is mitigated by the loan structure. Crucially, the striker's value has dipped from last summer's figure. For United, this may feel like a poor return on investment, but given his form, they may be tempted to cut their losses.
United's Striker Situation Complicates the Exit
Zirkzee's struggles aren't isolated. United are reportedly 'dissatisfied with Hojlund's performance,' and have already started scouting for another striker. In this context, it's unclear whether the club would sanction Zirkzee's departure without securing at least one replacement.
Manager Ruben Amorim will need a deep, dynamic attacking group if United are to mount a stronger campaign next season. With only Premier League fixtures to focus on (should they lose to Spurs), playing time will be harder to come by, particularly if Amorim recruits a new number nine.
Photo IMAGO
From that angle, it 'is likely that they too would welcome a new arrangement for Zirkzee,' the report concludes.
Inter's Broader Forward Hunt
Zirkzee is not the only name on Inter's shortlist. As Corriere Dello Sport revealed, 'for the attack, there are other names in the crosshairs.' Giacomo Raspadori could be considered if Napoli make a move for Davide Frattesi, while Adrian Bonny of Parma is viewed as a potential fourth-choice striker.
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Each of these names signals Inter's desire to build a versatile front line, with a mix of technical profiles. Zirkzee, whose height and close control make him a unique prospect, still fits the bill — but he's now one of several options, not the only one.
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From a Manchester United perspective, this story hits a few nerves. Fans were hopeful that Zirkzee could provide something different: a forward with flair, intelligent movement, and physical presence. But under two managers and in multiple systems, he hasn't delivered.
Now with Ruben Amorim at the helm, there's cautious optimism about his ability to develop young talent — a skill he displayed at Sporting Lisbon. But there's also realism. If Zirkzee hasn't found form after nearly 50 appearances, perhaps a change of scenery is in his best interest.
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What's worrying is the broader issue in attack. If both Zirkzee and Hojlund are struggling, and there's already talk of yet another striker, it suggests a systemic problem rather than just a form issue. Amorim needs to decide quickly whether Zirkzee fits into his future, or whether he becomes another expensive misfire.
From a fan's view, a loan move to Inter isn't the worst outcome. It protects value, offers regular minutes in a competitive league, and — crucially — gives Zirkzee a chance to regain confidence. Should he thrive, United can either bring him back or command a better fee. It's a pivot point for the player, and one that may quietly define the club's summer strategy.