
it’s no secret Manchester United Old Trafford have been in desperate need of a new centre-forward in recent weeks but do not have a decent option to do the job in the final third.
Joshua Zikze He arrived this summer with the expectation of strengthening the forward line and gave fans a reason to be excited after scoring on his debut against Fulham.
However, the Dutch thereafter only Scored twice in the next 19 games exist Premier Leagueand then had to take a spot on the bench.
As for Rasmus Hoylund, he is first choice at the top of the pitch and has started the last four games, but failed to score in any category Those outings.
Like Zirkzee, his performances throughout the 2024/25 season have been disappointing, which may lead to other options being explored.
Manchester United to bid £25m for talent
According to Italian media Internews08, Manchester United are serious about signings Inter Milan striker Francisco Pio Esposito and Ineos are ready to make an offer for the player.
The 19-year-old is currently on loan at Serie B side Spezia for the season and has become a protagonist as game time increases. Scored nine times These were his first 18 games for the club.
The report claims Milan will not consider any offer below €30m (£25m) and the Red Devils may have to accept a move for Esposito in the summer rather than January.
It also states that they have no intention of letting him leave the San Siro, but the prospect of leading United’s frontline may be an opportunity that is difficult to turn down.
Such a move can make the boss Ruben Amorim Sign a potential superstar who could end the career of one player at Old Trafford and potentially see him follow in the footsteps of another star.
Why Esposito is perfect for Manchester United
Any move by Esposito could push Zirkzee further down the pecking order, which could see the Netherlands international withdraw so that he can gain valuable game time elsewhere.

Sadly, the move didn’t work out for either side, but unfortunately it was clear that he wasn’t at the level required by Amorim and his 3-4-2-1 system.
However, any deal for the Italian youngster is likely to be an exciting prospect for fans, signing a talent who has already proven his ability while having the potential to improve significantly in the future.
Esposito Completed 2.7 progressive passes per 90 seconds In Serie B this season, he has touched the ball 7.1 times in the opposition penalty area, with scout Jacek Kulig describing him as “Great talent“.
Francisco Pio Esposito’s statistics in Spezia (2024/25) |
|
---|---|
Statistics (per 90 people) |
consistent |
Games played |
No. 19 |
Number of goals scored |
9 |
progressive pass |
2.7 |
Touching the ball in the opponent’s penalty area |
7.1 |
aerials win |
5.7 |
aerial success rate |
53% |
shot |
3.4 |
Create the action of the shot |
3.1 |
Statistics passed FB reference |
He claimed 5.7 aerial tackles per 90 while averaging 3.4 shots per game, highlighting his ability in attacking areas, something Kulig has previously claimed He is a similar player To the former Manchester United ace Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Considering the Swede’s exceptional career in the top flight, such a comparison is a huge statement and United have certainly signed a player with outstanding skills to follow in his footsteps.
However, the Italian does possess a mammoth 6ft 2in frame similar to Zlatan, and his aerial prowess and talent for creating magical moments are sure to thrill supporters.
A move is certainly a risk for a youngster, especially given the £25m transfer fee, but it’s clear from his numbers that he possesses huge qualities that will be useful to Amorim.
There is no doubt that many are hoping for a move to England this month as the aforementioned attacker’s poor form in the 2024/25 season has seen them sit lower in the league.
However, it’s a risk worth taking and if they can manage to offload Zirkzee, it’s possible to get Esposito for a decent price – with the former Bologna man in desperate need of a move to reignite his A promising career.

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