Manchester United could finally part ways with one of their first-team players.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Joshua Zirkzee is on the verge of joining Everton on loan. The loan deal is likely to include a buy option.
The Toffees had initially set their sights on AS Monaco forward Folarin Balogun, but that move could collapse after the striker reportedly failed his medical.
With Everton desperate to add another striker before the deadline, the Toffees have now turned their attention towards Zirkzee.
Just over an hour remains in the transfer window, leaving United, Everton and Zirkzee’s representatives racing against the clock to get the deal over the line.
Zirkzee’s departure has been on the cards throughout the summer, but losing him now could prove to be a major headache for INEOS, who have failed to bring in another striker.
Zirkzee has bagged only nine goals in 75 games over the last two seasons.
Even with United desperately searching for goals against Hull City, head coach Michael Carrick still opted against putting his faith in Zirkzee.
The 25-year-old attracted plenty of interest from Italy this summer, with Juventus, Napoli and Fiorentina all exploring the possibility of signing him.
Aston Villa also enquired about his situation before eventually bringing in Nicolas Jackson on loan from Chelsea.
Zirkzee has bagged only nine goals across 75 games over the last two seasons.
It remains to be seen whether the United recruitment team can pull a rabbit out of the hat in the final hour and find a striker capable of providing valuable cover for Benjamin Sesko.
Heading into the 2026-27 campaign with just one recognised striker would be a criminal gamble for INEOS.
Stats from Fotmob.com
