Manchester United have received an uncertain indication regarding their reported striker recruitment plans, with Gonçalo Ramos struggling to make a significant impact at AC Milan despite being linked with a possible move for United forward Joshua Zirkzee.

According to FootballTransfers on Monday, October 19, 2026, Milan paid €73.1 million to sign Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain during the summer transfer window. However, the Portuguese striker has managed just two goals and one assist since arriving, raising questions about his adaptation and early contribution to the Italian side.

Ramos has found the net against Venezia and Red Bull Salzburg, while also providing an assist for Adrien Rabiot during Milan’s victory over Lecce. Although those contributions have offered some encouragement, his overall return remains modest considering the substantial investment made to secure his services.

Gazzetta dello Sport journalist Andrea Ramazzotti acknowledged that Ramos has worked hard but has struggled to turn opportunities into goals. The assessment highlights the challenge facing the forward as he attempts to establish himself and justify the expectations attached to his transfer fee.

Nevertheless, Ramos has shown signs that his fortunes could improve. His recent goal for Milan, combined with three goals scored for Portugal during the international break, could help restore his confidence and provide momentum for the coming fixtures.

Despite his slow start in Italy, manager Ruben Amorim and owner Gerry Cardinale are reportedly confident that the striker will eventually demonstrate his value. Their continued belief suggests Milan are prepared to give him time to settle and deliver more consistently.

Meanwhile, Milan have also been linked with Zirkzee ahead of the January transfer window, creating a possible connection between the clubs’ respective attacking plans. The Dutch forward has struggled to secure regular opportunities at Manchester United and has yet to start a match this season, even with Benjamin Šeško unavailable because of a shin injury.

Zirkzee joined United from Bologna in 2024 but has found goals difficult to come by. He has scored nine times in 81 appearances, a record that has limited his ability to establish himself as a dependable attacking option.

The reported interest from Milan could offer Zirkzee a potential route to more playing time, although no completed transfer has been confirmed. United would need to consider their own attacking requirements before deciding whether to let him leave.

For now, both forwards face important periods in their respective careers. Ramos must improve his output to justify Milan’s investment, while Zirkzee needs consistent performances if he hopes to secure a more prominent role or attract a concrete offer in January.