Joshua Zirkzee tipped to make shock January transfer away from Man Utd just months after joining club The Manchester United forward has not lived up to the heights expected of him so far this season.

A Premier League icon has advised Joshua Zirkzee to contemplate an unexpected loan move following a challenging beginning to his time at Manchester United.

Zirkzee transferred to United from Bologna for an estimated £36.5 million in July, after contributing to Bologna’s fifth-place finish and Champions League qualification with 11 goals in 34 league matches last season.

Unfortunately, his early days at United have not gone as hoped. He had a promising debut, scoring in a 1-0 victory against Fulham on August 16, but he hasn’t found the net in his subsequent six Premier League matches. Although Zirkzee has shown potential in his overall play, he has not yet demonstrated the finishing ability United requires.

Consequently, former West Ham and Sheffield Wednesday player Paolo Di Canio has urged Juventus, one of his former clubs, to begin discussions with United regarding a potential loan in January.

“There’s so much uncertainty at Man United that they could even loan him out,” he stated to TuttoSport.

“With [Rasmus] Hojlund and [Marcus] Rashford already occupying that position, he could be a great addition and provide coach Motta with a different option than Vlahovic.

“I would initiate talks now for a loan with an option to buy. Zirkzee may not be a prolific scorer; he won’t net 25 goals, but he enhances his teammates’ play.”

Di Canio further noted that Zirkzee’s lack of speed has contributed to his difficulties in the Premier League.

“For the Premier League, he’s a bit too slow. He might prove me wrong with goals and excellent performances, but the game is more aggressive and the referees call fouls less often,” Di Canio commented.

“We’ve seen the impact he had at Bologna.”

Currently, there are no indications that formal inquiries have been made for Zirkzee ahead of the upcoming winter transfer window.