Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has sparked transfer speculation after admitting that Joshua Zirkzee, who has been linked with West Ham United, is keen to move on in January amid frustration over limited game time.
West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo is already drawing up plans to bolster his squad when the January transfer window opens. The Portuguese coach, who recently took charge at the London Stadium, is determined to guide the Hammers away from the relegation battle — but has made it clear he needs reinforcements to do so.
One key priority for Nuno is a new striker, and he has urged the club’s hierarchy to deliver attacking reinforcements as soon as possible. Several names have been linked with a move to east London, including Gabriel Jesus, Franculino Dju, Endrick, and Ivan Toney, but reports suggest that Zirkzee has emerged as a leading target.
The Dutch forward has struggled for regular opportunities at Old Trafford following the arrivals of Benjamin Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha, leaving him on the fringes of Amorim’s plans. Sources close to the player have hinted that Zirkzee is open to leaving in January in search of first-team football — a move that could help him reclaim a spot in the Netherlands squad ahead of the World Cup later this season.
Speaking about Zirkzee’s situation, Amorim confirmed that the 23-year-old is unhappy with his lack of minutes and has discussed his future with his representatives.
“Zirkzee and Mainoo are our players,” Amorim said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
“We need everyone to have a good season. Some players are not playing — there’s noise, there’s news — and some want to play. With a World Cup coming, players talk to their agents, and it’s natural.”
While Amorim acknowledged Zirkzee’s desire to leave, he stopped short of confirming that United would sanction a deal in January. The manager is reluctant to weaken his squad mid-season, meaning West Ham may need to negotiate a loan with an option or obligation to buy if they want to secure the forward’s signature.
The Hammers are expected to have funds available once Nuno finalises his list of targets, and Zirkzee’s combination of physicality and technical ability makes him a strong fit for the system the Portuguese coach wants to implement.
Whether United are willing to part ways with the striker remains to be seen — but Amorim’s latest comments have certainly opened the door for a potential mid-season switch to West Ham.