Man Utd Striker Shake-Up: Vlahović Swap Rumors as Zirkzee and Højlund Face Uncertain Futures

As the summer transfer window heats up, Manchester United are once again at the center of Europe’s striker market buzz. With reports suggesting a possible swap deal involving Juventus’ Dušan Vlahović, and ongoing questions over Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, the Red Devils may be preparing for a major frontline revamp ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Juventus Propose Vlahović-Zirkzee Swap Deal

According to Goal.com and multiple outlets, Juventus have proposed a player exchange: sending Serbian striker Dušan Vlahović to Old Trafford in return for Joshua Zirkzee. The Italian giants are eager to offload Vlahović, whose contract expires in 2026 and who has shown no interest in signing an extension.

Vlahović, known for his powerful presence and goal-scoring instincts, could offer United a more traditional No. 9 option—something they’ve lacked since the departure of Edinson Cavani and Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the swap hinges on United’s willingness to part with Zirkzee, who remains a long-term project under head coach Rúben Amorim.

Zirkzee vs Højlund: Amorim’s Tactical Call

Inside sources suggest Amorim favors keeping Zirkzee for the new campaign, despite his injury setbacks and modest 2024/25 output. Meanwhile, Rasmus Højlund, who cost United over £60 million in 2023, is reportedly being considered for sale to fund a new striker.

Højlund netted 10 goals in 52 appearances last season, but has struggled to live up to his price tag. Zirkzee, while less consistent, has delivered flashes of brilliance—most notably his double against Everton and a clutch penalty versus Arsenal in the FA Cup.

“If you’re up top, you’re supposed to score goals … me and Rasmus can do better,”
— Joshua Zirkzee, via post-match interview.

This self-awareness has earned Zirkzee credibility with Amorim, who sees untapped potential in the Dutchman’s movement, versatility, and link-up play.

📊 2024/25 Performance Recap

While Vlahović is clearly the most proven goal-getter of the trio, his arrival would mark a stylistic shift for United—toward a more physical, hold-up-centered approach.

💰 Transfer Strategy: Limited Budget, Big Decisions

United’s summer budget is believed to be limited unless significant outgoings are completed. Selling Højlund could fund a move not just for Vlahović, but also open the door for other reinforcements, including:

• Benjamin Šeško, highly rated but comes with a €70m valuation

• Carlos Baleba, a dynamic midfielder that Rio Ferdinand publicly urged the club to prioritize

• Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, already added to boost the attack’s support roles

With United failing to crack double digits in goals from any striker last season, the pressure to correct course is mounting.

🧠 The Tactical Implications

Amorim is known for demanding fluid, pressing-based football—a style better suited to mobile forwards like Zirkzee or Šeško, rather than a traditional target man. However, the club hierarchy may still lean toward a big-name solution like Vlahović to reassert dominance and satisfy commercial expectations.

Final Verdict

Manchester United are entering a pivotal summer. Whether they back Joshua Zirkzee, stick with Rasmus Højlund, or go all in for Dušan Vlahović, one thing is clear: the current striker dynamic is unsustainable if they aim to challenge for top honors.

With Amorim’s vision, fan expectations, and financial limitations all in play, the next move could define the Red Devils’ attacking future for seasons to come.