Juventus have turned down the opportunity to sign Manchester United outcast Marcus Rashford, with the Italian giants instead showing interest in his teammate Joshua Zirkzee.
The Serie A club were recently contacted about signing Rashford, who has been absent from United’s last four matchday squads.
However, Juventus have made it clear they would prefer to pursue Zirkzee, despite the Dutch forward’s struggles since his £36.5m summer move from Bologna.
Rashford recently expressed his desire for “a new challenge” in a bombshell interview, whilst Zirkzee has managed just four goals in 26 appearances for the Old Trafford club this season.
Marcus Rashford is not on Juventus’ wish list
Reuters
United manager Ruben Amorim addressed Rashford’s absence following Thursday’s 2-0 defeat to Wolves.
“It’s always the same reason it’s going to be,” Amorim told Prime Video. “We have to be the same professionals, the same guys, winning or losing.”
“If he’s not here, you can make your mind up,” the Portuguese boss added.
Rashford had previously told journalist Henry Winter: “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.”
The England international, who currently earns £300,000-a-week, has scored just four goals in the Premier League this season.
Reports suggest United may consider offers as low as £40 million for the forward.
Zirkzee’s time at Old Trafford has been marked by limited impact since his summer transfer from Bologna.
The 23-year-old has completed 90 minutes in the Premier League just twice this season.
His return of four goals and two assists in 26 appearances has led many supporters to question the signing.
Despite his current struggles in England, the forward’s reputation remains strong in Italy following his successful spell at Bologna.
Marcus Rashford has been dropped by Ruben Amorim on several occasions
Reuters
Several Italian clubs are monitoring his situation, with Inter Milan and Napoli also reportedly interested in bringing the Dutch international back to Serie A.
However, United are unlikely to sanction a January departure without securing a replacement, given their limited attacking options.
Juventus manager Thiago Motta believes he can revive Zirkzee’s form after their previous successful collaboration at Bologna.
Motta, who managed Zirkzee during his time in Serie A, is keen on a reunion with his former striker.
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The Italian giants view Zirkzee as a more attractive option than Rashford, whose wages of over £300,000-a-week have deterred several potential suitors.
Barcelona and Real Madrid have also reportedly rejected the chance to sign the England international.
A January move for Zirkzee would mark a swift return to Italy for the Dutchman, though United’s reluctance to take a financial loss may complicate negotiations.
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