Credit: Manh Tung/Breaking Media

Scott Mason

Tue 17 March 2026 12:20, UK

Joshua Zirkzee has been a name linked with a move to West Ham United over the past few months.

The centre-forward position has long been a recurring issue for the E20 outfit, with plenty of their former number nines failing to impress.

In the winter window, Nuno Espirito Santo brought two more to London Stadium in the form of Taty Castellanos and Pablo.

Right now, the jury is still out on the new arrivals, although positive.

If the Irons are looking to invest in the forward department once more, Zirkzee could be an affordable option for West Ham’s summer transfers.

West Ham learn Joshua Zirkzee asking price

Manchester United are open to selling Zirkzee, and with the Irons holding previous interest, you would expect them to be keeping tabs.

A move for the number nine would entirely depend on the money involved, but reports have now shared what the Manchester club will be seeking to sell.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Red Devils only want £21.6million to sell Zirkzee in the summer.

In the current market, that is effectively a bargain price for a Premier League forward. In the recent winter window, Jorgen Strand Larsen was sold for £48million to Crystal Palace.

If the Hammers are looking to add another number nine to their ranks, they simply cannot turn down the chance to sign Zirkzee.

At 25 years old, the fee touted for the Dutchman represents excellent value in a market often bloated by extortionate fees for strikers.

Where would Zirkzee fit at West Ham?

When it comes to Zirkzee, the Dutchman is more of a false nine than a traditional striker, which could clash with Castellanos.

The Argentinian has stated that the role he believes he plays is a number nine. However, with the Man United forward coming in at 6’4″, he would offer the attacking line an added threat.

His height and physicality are another weapon that Nuno could use at his disposal, and he could bring Jarrod Bowen and Crysenico Summerville into the game more.

His presence would occupy the centre-backs and allow the two wide players to make those runs in behind.

It remains to be seen if the East London club will make their move for Zirkzee after months of links. However, at the price touted, it would not be a surprise to see them pounce.