Joshua Zirkzee will request a transfer away from Manchester United in the upcoming January transfer window. West Ham are leading the race to rescue the Dutch international from his Old Trafford nightmare. Zirkzee has had a challenging time at United since his £36m move from Bologna under Erik ten Hag’s reign.

The striker has struggled to make his mark and has been mocked due to his goal drought. Last season, the 24-year-old netted only seven times in 49 matches across all competitions. This season, he has only made four appearances, and it’s been 10 months since his last league goal for United, scored in December last year. United manager Ruben Amorim has decided that Zirkzee does not fit into his long-term plans.

The situation has been exacerbated by the summer arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko. Zirkzee has slipped down the pecking order and recognises the need to leave United to rejuvenate his faltering career.

It is believed that United executives will entertain offers for Zirkzee in the January transfer window. Another possibility is a loan move for the rest of the season, with an option to make it permanent.

Zirkzee fears that his lack of first-team action could jeopardise his chances of representing the Netherlands in the World Cup. Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands boss, has advised Zirkzee that he needs more game time if he wants to be considered for selection, should the team qualify for next summer’s tournament.

Zirkzee is keen to stay in the Premier League, but he’s open to a move back to Europe if it means parting ways with Manchester United.