Zirkzee's move to Napoli stalls as United wait on Serie A club to clear space

Manchester United’s push to sell Joshua Zirkzee to Napoli has been put on hold, with the Serie A club required to sanction a departure before they can move for the Dutch forward, according to transfer journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

Zirkzee, 25, has struggled to justify his £36.5 million price tag since joining United from Bologna two summers ago. He managed three Premier League goals in 32 appearances in his debut season and followed that with just two in 24 last term — a return that has convinced the club he will not be offered a third year at Old Trafford.

Napoli’s need to move players on first is the primary obstacle. The Naples club recently sold Romelu Lukaku to Fenerbahce for £5 million after the Belgian striker contributed only one goal in five Serie A appearances last season. That departure has left Napoli short of attacking options, prompting their interest in Zirkzee.

The delay may be short-lived. Atalanta are reportedly looking to sign Noa Lang on loan for the 2026/27 season, a move that would free up the squad and financial space Napoli need to proceed with a Zirkzee deal.

However, the situation carries an additional complication: Zirkzee is not the only striker on Napoli’s shortlist. The club are also monitoring Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus, who appears likely to leave north London ahead of the transfer deadline following the arrival of Viktor Gyokeres and reduced playing time under Mikel Arteta. Reports indicate, though, that Jesus is not interested in a move to Napoli, which could ultimately work in United’s favour as they look to move Zirkzee on before the window closes.