Joshua Zirkzee 'in talks' to join Premier League club in surprise late deal

Joshua Zirkzee is in talks over a move away from Manchester United which would see him remain in the Premier League, reports claim.

Zirkzee is still on United's books despite struggling to establish himself at Old Trafford following his move from Bologna in 2024.

The Dutchman has scored just nine goals in 75 appearances for United and his lack of form saw him left out of Netherlands' World Cup squad in the summer.

The 25-year-old is starting the new campaign as a United player but is not expected to stick around.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Zirkzee has attracted plenty of interest from clubs in Italy - having regularly been linked with a return to Serie A.

But speaking on his YouTube channel, the transfer expert claims that Aston Villa have contacted United regarding Zirkzee.

The deal would depend on the situation involving Villa striker Ollie Watkins, who is a top target for Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

Explaining the situation, Romano said: "Italian clubs calling. I'm told there was a call, just a call at the moment, no bid, no negotiation, but just a call, also from Aston Villa. Why Aston Villa? Why? Because Al Hilal are expected to return to the table for Ollie Watkins."

Aston Villa have been raided in summer transfer window

After winning the Europa League and securing a return to the Champions League, Villa have lost a number of their key players.

READ MORE: Leon Goretzka in talks to join Premier League club on a free transfer after leaving Bayern Munich

Morgan Rogers signed for Chelsea for £117 million and became the most expensive British player of all time, while Youri Tielemans joined Manchester United after they activated his £35 million release clause.

Lucas Digne re-signed for Paris Saint-Germain and Ezri Konsa has completed a £55 million switch to Arsenal.

Watkins has been the subject of four offers from Al Hilal. Villa rejected the latest offer, said to be around £45 million, but the Saudi side are expected to continue their pursuit of the England international.

Watkins will not be in the squad for the first game of the season against Brighton after a lack of training sessions and Emery has admitted he could move on as he spoke of offers coming in.

"We have an issue with him, it's clear. He is our player. We have had offers for him," Emery said in his press conference.

"I don't want to sell him but it can change because if it's a good option for him and the club and I can replace him in the squad, this is the routine we have and we did before with the players who are leaving.

"With Ollie, he is here, for me he is a fantastic striker, we have always believed in him.

"Now he is our player, there are 10 days more or less to finish the transfer window, we will see what happens, I'm happy with him, if he is staying with us he will continue playing his level.

"If he leaving it's because it is good for three ways, one is him, another is the club and another is the team."

Watkins has scored 108 goals for Villa, who have Tammy Abraham and 17-year-old sensation Brian Madjo as striker options.

Their summer signings include Joao Gomes from Wolves, Switzerland international Johan Manzambi from SC Freiburg and Matteo Ruggeri from Atletico Madrid.

Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has also been brought in from Parma, paving the way for Emiliano Martinez to move on.

The Argentina shotstopper looked set to join Juventus but the clubs could not come to an agreement on the fee.