Manchester United have drawn a clear line. They want either a permanent sale or a loan carrying an obligation to buy. Juventus favour a lower-risk structure, hoping to delay the full financial commitment, which explains why negotiations have centred on the deal rather than the player’s intentions.

Frederic Massara has stayed heavily involved throughout the discussions. Moretto reports that the Juventus sporting director remains in regular contact with Manchester United and the player’s representatives as every side searches for common ground.

Earlier reports valued Zirkzee at around €65 million. That figure no longer reflects the current situation. A season-long loan with a compulsory purchase clause now appears the most realistic solution because it gives Juventus financial flexibility while providing United with a guaranteed exit.

Manchester United transfer news: His Old Trafford career has stalled

Little has gone right for Zirkzee since slipping down Michael Carrick’s attacking order. The 25-year-old finished the 2025/26 Premier League season with two goals and one assist from 24 appearances, collecting only 624 league minutes. Across all competitions, he managed two goals in 26 matches as Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko became Carrick’s preferred attacking options.

Those numbers tell part of the story. The tactical picture tells the rest.

Carrick wants constant penetration, quick transitions and forwards who attack the penalty area at every opportunity. Zirkzee thrives with the ball at his feet, drifting into deeper spaces and linking play before runners burst beyond him. That contrast has left him without a natural role in the current system.

Manchester United transfer news: A compromise benefits every side

Juventus already possess valuable leverage because the player has accepted the destination. Manchester United still control the negotiations, though, allowing them to reject a simple loan unless it guarantees a permanent transfer.

A package worth between £22 million and £25 million, equivalent to around €26-30 million, feels like the obvious landing point. United would recover part of the £36.5 million invested while removing a player who no longer suits Carrick’s plans. Juventus, meanwhile, know exactly what Zirkzee can produce in Serie A after his outstanding spell at Bologna, making this far less of a gamble than his recent Premier League record might suggest.