Manchester United marked a triumphant return to form with a win against Newcastle on Friday evening. The victory saw the Red Devils close in on third-placed Liverpool, now just three points adrift. The match was a gritty affair, with Patrick Dorgu’s sublime volley proving decisive against the Magpies. In the absence of captain Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Amorim opted for a rarely-seen back four formation.
Around the hour mark, the game saw a shake-up as Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee were brought into play. Here, we take a look at all the latest United transfer news ahead of the January window opening and the upcoming match against Wolves.
Joshua Zirkzee makes transfer decision
Zirkzee landed in Manchester in the summer of 2024, marking the first signing under new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Erik ten Hag was at the helm when he transferred from Bologna.
Despite his £36.5million price tag, Zirkzee struggled to make his mark under Ten Hag and has had limited opportunities off the bench under Amorim, managing just one assist this season.
With fresh forwards joining the squad over the summer, speculation began to swirl about a possible exit for Zirkzee, but no move materialised. As the January transfer window looms, rumours continue to circulate, with recent reports suggesting that Zirkzee has reached a decision regarding his future.
La Gazzetta dello Sport claim that Zirkzee has reached an agreement to sign with Roma, a club that has consistently been linked with the Dutch striker.
The forward has purportedly engaged in talks with Roma’s sporting director, Ricky Massara, and secured reassurances from boss Gian Piero Gasparini regarding his integration into their system.
Agreement reached on new deal
While the men’s squad appears to be bracing for Zirkzee’s exit, positive developments have emerged on the women’s side. Japanese international Hinata Miyazawa has signed a fresh contract with United, tying her to the club through to 2029.
The midfielder, who arrived in Manchester two years previously, proved instrumental in the club’s Women’s FA Cup triumph during the 2023/24 season. She remains a regular fixture in her national team setup.
Matt Johnson, Director of Women’s Football at United, commented: “We are really excited to have Hinata extend her time at Manchester United.
“She has become a critical component to the way we play. Her footballing intelligence and technical ability enables her and the team to control and dictate play from central areas.”
Miyazawa added: “I am really enjoying playing football at Manchester United and I am really happy to be continuing my journey here.”