Euro giants end interest in Man United star and shift focus towards Tottenham attacker

The winter transfer window is looming and with it, a potential shake-up in Roma’s striking plans.

What once seemed a near-certain move for Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United now looks increasingly uncertain, with Roma shifting their focus toward Tottenham’s young forward Mathys Tel , according to Il Messaggero .

For weeks, Zirkzee was thought to be the number one target for Roma’s January window . The Dutch forward, who has struggled for consistent minutes at Man United , seemed a likely fit for Roma’s need for a forward capable of leading the line.

Roma were engaged in negotiations for a loan, possibly with a purchase option, hoping Zirkzee could rediscover his form and reinvigorate their attack.

Joshua Zirkzee in action for Man Utd (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

Zirkzee ended his goal drought this season with a key strike against Crystal Palace, his first Premier League goal in nearly a year, and one that showed United’s continued faith in him.

Following that performance, Zirkzee publicly declared his happiness at Old Trafford , an admission that reportedly unsettled Roma’s hierarchy.

Manager Gian Piero Gasperini and sporting director Frederic Massara now believe that the Dutchman may no longer be motivated to push for a January exit, prompting them to reconsider their plans.

Given the uncertainty, Roma have started exploring alternatives, chief among them is Mathys Tel . Tel might lack Zirkzee’s experience, but he brings attributes that make him an attractive option for Roma’s immediate needs.

Mathys Tel of Tottenham (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

The Tottenham forward has seen limited game time this season, finding himself on the fringes at Spurs .

He hasn’t started a Premier League game since October, and his most recent appearances have been as a substitute.

That lack of minutes could make him open to a loan move, precisely what Roma are seeking.

A deal for Tel represents a lower-risk, lower-cost alternative compared to the initially mooted Zirkzee move, offering the club flexibility should things not work out.