Why West Ham must beat Everton to Joshua Zirkzee signing, but one star will be furious
Joshua Zirkzee clearly has an ideal destination for the revival of his career as West Ham and Everton join the race for the Man United star.
With just seven goals since arriving at Old Trafford in the summer of 2024, it is fair to say that Zirkzee has flopped as a Man United player despite plenty of excitement about his signing.
Being forced back into the transfer market, Man United sealed a deal for Benjamin Sesko, which only put another nail in the Dutchman’s coffin as his struggles continue at Old Trafford.
Football Insider understands that Zirkzee is becoming increasingly frustrated by his situation, and with both West Ham and Everton credited with interest, he has multiple exit routes in January.
Nuno Espirito Santo can revive Man United flop’s career
During his time at Bologna, the 24-year-old spoke extensively about him not being an out-and-out centre-forward, but rather someone who plays between a No.9 and No.10.
He has not been given that chance under Ruben Amorim so far, but if he were to choose the Hammers over a move to Merseyside, there would be the perfect opportunity to rediscover his form.
Football Insider understands that West Ham are eager to sign Zirkzee, with Callum Wilson not fit enough to last a full 90 minutes and an injured Niclas Fullkrug heading for the exit doors soon.
With Crysencio Summerville and Jarrod Bowen on the wings, with a striker in front of him, the Dutchman would absolutely thrive at the London Stadium, but the move might not benefit everyone.
Lucas Paqueta unlikely to like the arrival of Joshua Zirkzee
With the potential new arrival preferring not to play as a natural centre-forward, that would likely mean that Nuno Espirito Santo would have to play without his normal attacking midfielder, Lucas Paqueta.
Unless the Brazilian was to play ahead of the Man United star, or even on the left flank, it could mean less game time for the playmaker, who already has four goals this season.
The Hammers need depth in positions across the board, and while supporters are desperate for a new striker, Zirkzee would add another dynamic to the final third.
Of course, experimenting while the Irons are very much in a relegation battle could be a dangerous decision, but it will likely be one that pays off if Nuno can get the player firing again.