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Manchester United Outcast Set to Sign for Everton as Striker Deal Collapses: Report
Everton moved for the 24-year-old after Folarin Balogun’s medical problems stalled their earlier striker search, Sky Sports reported.
Everton submitted a late loan bid for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee on deadline day after their primary target, Folarin Balogun, failed a medical. The Toffees pivoted to the Dutchman as the transfer window neared its 11pm close.
The Toffees had nearly finalized a move for Balogun from Monaco, but negotiations ground to a halt after medical staff identified issues during his screening. Everton's hierarchy abandoned the deal, unwilling to commit resources to a player with potential underlying risks.
Zirkzee has struggled at Old Trafford, failing to log a single minute during the opening two fixtures of the 2026/27 season. The 25-year-old forward fell down the pecking order following last summer's additions of Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Matheus Cunha.
With 90 minutes until the 11pm deadline, United remained undecided on Everton's loan offer. Zirkzee was reportedly open to the move, though a departure would leave Manchester United with no time to secure a replacement striker.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick stated he was pleased with his current group, saying "I think we're a better group, a better squad, potentially a better team." Carrick remained open to late additions but acknowledged the club must wait and see.