Fiorentina had been pursuing Zirkzee as they reshaped their forward line, but the proposed loan deal has now fallen through. Reports on the developing situation indicate that Beto has emerged as the alternative, with Fiorentina moving quickly rather than waiting any longer for the United forward.
Why the Fiorentina Deal Collapsed
Zirkzee had been considered Fiorentina's preferred option as they searched for a replacement for Moise Kean.
Fiorentina had explored a loan arrangement with Manchester United, with the Dutch forward open to a return to Serie A. Earlier proposals were understood to involve a loan fee and an option to buy, but the clubs were unable to complete the agreement.
The situation became particularly complicated because Juventus were also monitoring Zirkzee. A potential move to Turin could depend on whether Juventus allow Jonathan David to leave, creating another layer of uncertainty around the striker's future.
Fiorentina Turn to Beto
With the Zirkzee route now off, Fiorentina have switched their attention to Beto.
The Everton striker had already been identified as an alternative during negotiations for Zirkzee, meaning the Italian club were prepared for the possibility that the Manchester United deal would fail.
Fiorentina have subsequently moved to secure Beto, with reports now indicating that an agreement has been reached for the Portuguese forward.
What This Means for Zirkzee at Man Utd
The collapse of the Fiorentina move does not necessarily mean Zirkzee will remain at Manchester United.
The 25-year-old remains one of the players whose future is uncertain at Old Trafford. He joined United from Bologna in 2024 for a reported £36.5 million, but has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter.
United had been willing to consider a departure, but any late move now has to come from another interested club.
That could bring Juventus back into the picture, particularly if their own striker situation changes before the transfer deadline.
The Bigger Problem for Manchester United
Zirkzee's situation also carries implications for United's squad planning.
If the Dutchman eventually leaves, United would need to decide whether to bring in another striker or rely on their existing attacking options.
For now, however, Fiorentina's decision to move for Beto removes one of the clearest routes out of Old Trafford for Zirkzee.
With the transfer window approaching its deadline, the Dutchman's future has suddenly become one of the more intriguing late-window stories at Manchester United.
