United to pursue Scalvini as Zirkzee loan nears completion, Carrick confirms shift from midfield focus

Giorgio Scalvini is now the focal point of Manchester United’s defensive recruitment, as head coach Michael Carrick confirms a strategic pivot away from midfield reinforcements. The 22-year-old Atalanta defender has drawn renewed interest from Old Trafford, according to The Telegraph.

Scalvini’s profile and valuation

Scalvini has made 137 appearances for Atalanta in Serie A. He is an Italy international and has previously been monitored by United’s scouting department. Transfermarkt lists his current market value at £32 million (€38 million). His fitness record remains a noted consideration for Carrick ahead of any potential deal.

Zirkzee’s imminent loan move

Joshua Zirkzee is set to depart Manchester United on a season-long loan to Juventus, per Sky Sport Italia. The 25-year-old Dutch forward has agreed to the move, which follows limited playing time during the previous campaign. Since joining United for £36.5 million in 2024, Zirkzee scored nine goals in 75 appearances across all competitions.

His reduced opportunities stemmed from increased competition for forward positions, specifically from Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo. The Manchester Evening News reports that Carrick is actively weighing Zirkzee’s exit as part of broader squad recalibration.

Midfield signings already completed

United have already secured two midfield additions this window: Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. Carrick’s emphasis has since shifted toward strengthening the backline. The club has been linked with multiple defenders, though Scalvini now stands as the most concretely reported candidate.

Radek Vitek’s departure to Middlesbrough is described as apparently imminent. One further senior squad exit is expected before the transfer deadline, though no additional names have been identified in the reporting.

The summer transfer window closes in under one month. Carrick faces several major decisions before deadline day, with defensive reinforcement now confirmed as the top priority over additional midfield acquisitions.