Roma make the first move as Zirkzee seeks rescue from United

ROMA have made the first move to try and sign Manchester United outcast Joshua Zirkzee.

- By JOHN CROSS

The Italian giants have sounded out United and Zirkzee's representatives about a January loan switch.

Roma face major competition as there is also interest from Everton, West Ham, PSV Eindhoven and Juventus in the race to sign the Dutch forward.

But Roma believe the 24-year-old is open to a move back to Italy as he made his name with Bologna.

They are also willing to offer a loan switch with an option to make it permanent depending on appearances and also whether they make European football next season.

Zirkzee has found himself out in the cold at Old Trafford this season and has yet to start a Premier League game.

There may be an opportunity if Benjamin Sesko is out but his injury is not thought to be serious, although United boss Ruben Amorim has been reluctant to allow players to go if it leaves him short.