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Zirkzee sent to the stands in Manchester derby

Andy Mattioli
(Photo by Ion Alcoba Beitia/Getty Images)

With the arrivals of Robinio Vaz and Malen, Roma have strengthened their attack, which had been lacking in goalscoring in the first half of the season.

However, with Dovbyk’s injury and Bailey on his way out, Gasperini would appreciate further reinforcements.

The coach’s preferred name is still Zirkzee. With the dismissal of Amorim, United had put a freeze on any transfer market moves, and it seemed the Dutchman was destined to remain in Manchester.

In recent days, however, the opportunity seems to have reopened, and Roma are back in the thick of things to please Gasperini.

Meanwhile, another sign of a seemingly definitive rift between Zirkzee and United has arrived. Today, the derby against City is being played at Old Trafford, and the Dutchman isn’t even on the bench.

This is a significant difference from recent weeks, when Zirkzee, despite being on the market, still appeared on the pitch.

The Dutchman has reiterated his desire to return to Serie A in recent days, and has had an agreement with Roma for several weeks.

United’s approval is needed, but they haven’t yet decided whether to sell the striker. His exclusion from the Manchester derby, however, could be a sign that a move is imminent.

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