​Romano: Amorim Firmly Blocks Zirkzee Exit; Mainoo Interested in Napoli Move

November 19 – Noted journalist Fabrizio Romano provided updates on several clubs and players in his latest YouTube podcast, discussing Benjamin Šeško's injury situation and the stance of Manchester United and manager Rúben Amorim regarding squad players Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee.  

On Benjamin Šeško's Injury
Manchester United's coaching staff, after comprehensive assessment, expect striker Benjamin Šeško to return to team training in early December. The Slovenian forward is anticipated to be sidelined for approximately three weeks. Fortunately, the injury is not severe and does not constitute a long-term absence, contrary to some media reports from ten days ago.  

Therefore, Šeško is likely to miss home matches against Everton and West Ham United at Old Trafford, as well as away fixtures at Crystal Palace and Wolverhampton Wanderers. United hope for his return after this period, as key attackers Amad Diallo and Jean-Philippe Mateta will be away representing Ivory Coast and Cameroon respectively in the Africa Cup of Nations.  

Recalling the injury, Šeško was forced off with a knee injury during United's Premier League match against Tottenham in Round 11. Following this, the Slovenian national team confirmed his withdrawal from this month's international fixtures due to the injury.  

On Zirkzee's Future Following Šeško's Injury  
Joshua Zirkzee has been one of the key players United need to address in the January window, with previous reports indicating his desire to leave in January. From my understanding, AS Roma have made inquiries about Zirkzee's situation, exploring a potential return to Italy for the striker. However, the final decision on Zirkzee's departure rests with Manchester United. The club must reach a conclusion on whether he can leave. With Šeško recently injured – albeit not seriously – and the Africa Cup of Nations approaching, which will deplete United's squad, the club faces a decision on Zirkzee's future.  

Internal sources indicate that Amorim has consistently advocated for keeping the player. Additionally, Zirkzee, having spent much of the first half of the season on the bench, is particularly eager for playing time. It remains to be seen how Zirkzee and United will find a resolution in the coming weeks.  

On Kobbie Mainoo's Situation  
Due to injuries to André-Frank Zambo Anguissa and Kevin De Bruyne, Mainoo remains on Napoli's midfield shortlist, and the player himself is interested in a move to the Italian club. It should be clarified: despite recent rumors of a potential deal including a buy option, United have not considered such a structure since August. Mainoo also prefers a straight loan deal, given his attachment to the club as a product of United's academy. United's position is clear: if they agree to a departure, it would only be a pure loan without obligations or options. Mainoo's future entirely depends on the decisions of United's board and Amorim.  

On United's Potential Pursuit of Bournemouth Forward Dango Ouattara  
From my understanding, Ouattara has a release clause set at £65 million for the January transfer window. This consists of £60 million in fixed fees and £5 million in achievable add-ons.  

Furthermore, this clause amount will see a slight reduction next summer but will not drop below the £50 million figure that was rejected early in the previous transfer window.  

Reportedly, Ouattara is happy at Bournemouth and has no intention of pushing for a move this season, but a departure is expected at the end of the season, which the club has accepted.  

Source: YouTube