It is not the most high-profile story at Manchester United right now, but a decision on Joshua Zirkzee’s future is coming into view - with sources indicating the forward is preparing to explore fresh opportunities in January.
The Dutchman survived the summer reshuffle at Old Trafford despite suggestions he could be moved on, but his standing in the squad has barely improved.
He has been an unused substitute three times already this season and was handed just five minutes in last weekend’s clash with Brentford.
The likelihood is that he starts on the bench again when United face Sunderland in a crunch match for Ruben Amorim this weekend, offering another reminder of his current squad status.
Inside Old Trafford, there is sympathy for Zirkzee’s situation.
He has never quite managed to establish a defined role since arriving from Bologna, and the club’s relentless push to refresh their attack has only made matters worse.
More than £200 million has been invested since the end of last season on Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko, leaving Zirkzee squeezed out of the picture.
He has seven goals from 53 United appearances but retains a strong reputation in Italy, where Juventus and AC Milan have tracked him before.
Now Como are also exploring the possibility of offering him a new challenge.
Our understanding is that United value Zirkzee at around £30m, yet a loan exit in January is considered the most realistic option.
The only factor that could change his trajectory is Amorim’s own future.
Should a new manager arrive before the end of the year, there is a small chance Zirkzee could be given the reset he has been waiting for.
But the expectation is that his United career is entering its final stretch, with a move away in the new year looking increasingly likely.
And a return to Italy would be his most likely destination.
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