One Manchester United player could be set for a departure from Old Trafford and a reunion with a former boss in the summer transfer window Analysis, context and
Manchester United’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be a pivot point for Michael Carrick’s rebuilding project, with two first-team players now firmly in the exit lane. The most striking development is the reported shift in Noussair Mazraoui’s agency representation, a move that has fuelled speculation over his Old Trafford exit. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Moroccan defender has joined Panthera, a high-profile agency handling several top European players. Italian reports suggest AC Milan are prioritising a wing-back to fit their 3-4-3 system, with Mazraoui—praised by new Rossoneri manager Ruben Amorim during his United tenure—emerging as a potential target.
Mazraoui has joined Panthera, a decision that has intensified transfer speculation. The defender’s versatility—having played as both a wing-back and centre-back under Amorim at United—makes him an intriguing option for Milan, though questions remain over which role he would occupy in the Portuguese coach’s preferred formation. Amorim’s public praise for Mazraoui during his United tenure has only added weight to the rumours: “He’s a top player. He understands the game. He knows how to attack, he’s very technical, he’s very good defensively and he’s very good one-on-one.”
Mazraoui’s international commitments have kept him sharp, with Morocco reaching the latter stages of the World Cup and the African Cup of Nations final within months of each other. His fitness and form make him a viable target, but United’s willingness to sell will dictate whether Milan can progress. The Rossoneri’s pursuit of a wing-back aligns with their tactical needs, and if Mazraoui secures a move, it would mark a rare summer reunion between a player and a coach who clearly rate each other highly.
Joshua Zirkzee’s Manchester United career appears to be nearing its end, with Juventus leading the chase for the Dutch striker on a loan deal with a £30m option to buy. The 25-year-old’s struggles under Carrick—starting just one of 17 games—have left him out of Erik ten Hag’s plans and even the fringes of the Netherlands squad for the World Cup. Despite a promising pre-season cameo against Rosenborg, where he scored a solo goal and provided an assist, Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford looks increasingly untenable.
Juventus’ interest follows the collapse of their move for Randal Kolo Muani, refocusing their striker hunt on Zirkzee, who impressed during his time at Bologna (14 goals, eight assists in 58 games). Dutch legend Ruud Gullit has publicly urged Zirkzee to return to Serie A, arguing that his move to United was mistimed: “Joshua Zirkzee made a mistake moving to Manchester United—he should have stayed in Italy.” Roma are also monitoring the situation, but Juventus’ financial muscle and Zirkzee’s desire to rediscover his form in Serie A make them favourites to land him.
His departure would leave United with only Benjamin Sesko as a senior centre-forward, though Carrick has been tipped to sign an experienced backup. With midfield and goalkeeper already addressed in the transfer market, the club’s focus now shifts to reshaping their attacking options before the Premier League opener against Hull City on August 22.
Amid the uncertainty surrounding Mazraoui and Zirkzee, Benjamin Sesko’s rehabilitation from a shin injury offers a rare positive. The Slovenian missed United’s opening two pre-season friendlies but has since resumed outdoor training and is on track to feature in the upcoming fixtures against Atlético Madrid and PSG. His recovery is progressing as planned, with no setback reported since aggravating the injury in May’s win over Liverpool.
Sesko’s debut season, despite a slow start, ended with 12 goals, including crucial strikes as a super-sub and late winner against Fulham, Everton, and West Ham. His form was pivotal in United’s 12 wins from 17 games under Carrick, proving his value as a reliable option up front. While Zirkzee’s potential exit leaves a void, Sesko’s fitness provides Carrick with a clear first-choice striker—at least for now.
United’s transfer activity this summer has been concentrated in midfield and defence, with three signings for a total of £85m. The club’s need to balance ambition with pragmatism is evident, but the Mazraoui and Zirkzee situations demand swift resolution. Whether through sales or strategic loans, Carrick must finalise his squad before the transfer window slams shut.
One thing is certain: the coming weeks will determine whether United’s summer reshuffle strengthens their hand or leaves them exposed. The Mazraoui-Amorim reunion, if it materialises, could be the most intriguing twist of all.
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