Manchester United ended a four-match losing streak with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday.
The Red Devils produced an impressive showing at Anfield and could have secured maximum points if they were more clinical with their chances.
United had a couple of quality opportunities to score in the opening half.
Rasmus Hojlund and Amad Diallo failed to capitalise. The latter made amends with a fine equaliser in the second half, but United could have won the game.
Right at the death, Joshua Zirkzee was free on goal but opted to pass to Harry Maguire, who unfortunately riffled his effort over the bar.
Speaking after the stalemate, manager Ruben Amorim was asked about Zirkzee’s future, who came on as an 86th-minute substitute for Hojlund.
There has been speculation that he could return to Serie A with interest from Juventus. Amorim has admitted he could leave the club.
He told Manutd.com: “I want to keep Josh because he gives everything and he’s trying in training, but we don’t know.
“The window is open, and we will see what happens.”
Zirkzee could depart on loan with a buy option
The Netherlands international has had a tough introduction to English football. He had a fantastic debut with a winning goal against Fulham off the bench.
However, he has netted only three times since then. The Dutchman’s confidence has dropped with his limited playing time in recent weeks.
Zirkzee, previously described as a ‘powerful‘ striker by Bayern Munich II manager Holger Seitz, got the nod to start against Newcastle United last week in the absence of Bruno Fernandes.
However, he was substituted after just 33 minutes. His early removal was met with a cheerful reaction from some fans, and he reportedly wants to leave the Premier League in the current transfer window.
His agent, Kia Joorabchian, has already opened discussions with Juventus. Manager Thiago Motta considers Zirkzee to be the perfect striker after their time together in Bologna.
The Bianconeri are looking into a free loan deal with an option to purchase.
United prefer to sanction his sale outright but could be tempted to accept the proposal if they can find a temporary replacement for the rest of the campaign.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani is available, and United could explore the possibility of signing him on loan with a buy clause.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
