AC Milan are reportedly weighing up a January move for Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee as the club looks to bolster its attacking options following the inconsistent form of Santiago Gimenez. The Dutch forward has been one of Serie A’s standout performers over the past year, and Milan’s interest signals a renewed push to add firepower ahead of the second half of the campaign. However, reports in Italy suggest that a Roma forward is also being lined up as an alternative — with the Rossoneri also monitoring the situation of a Manchester United outcast.
Milan’s attacking struggles this season have been a growing concern for manager Stefano Pioli, whose side has struggled for consistency in front of goal despite creating plenty of chances. Santiago Gimenez, who arrived amid huge expectations after his prolific run with Feyenoord, has yet to fully find his rhythm in Italy. While his movement and work rate have impressed at times, his finishing and link-up play have left much to be desired, leading the Milan hierarchy to explore other options.
Joshua Zirkzee, at just 24, has emerged as one of the most technically gifted young strikers in Serie A. The former Bayern Munich talent has combined flair, physicality, and intelligence in attack, becoming the focal point of Thiago Motta’s exciting Bologna side. His ability to drop deep, create space for wingers, and score from tight angles has attracted attention not only from Milan but also from Premier League clubs. His current valuation is believed to be around €40–45 million, a fee Milan may find steep but attainable if player sales free up funds in January.
The appeal of Zirkzee lies in his versatility. Unlike Gimenez, who thrives mainly as a penalty-box poacher, Zirkzee offers creativity and unpredictability, capable of operating as both a striker and a false nine. With Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic providing pace and width, Pioli reportedly sees Zirkzee as an ideal link between midfield and attack — a modern forward who could unlock deeper defenses and elevate Milan’s attacking structure.
However, Milan are not putting all their eggs in one basket. According to multiple Italian outlets, the club has also identified a Roma forward — likely Andrea Belotti or Tammy Abraham — as a potential short-term alternative should negotiations for Zirkzee prove difficult. Both players bring Serie A experience and could be more affordable options in the winter market. Belotti, in particular, would add leadership and domestic know-how, while Abraham’s physical presence and finishing could reignite his career after an injury-hit spell.
Meanwhile, there are whispers that Milan could reignite interest in a Manchester United outcast, possibly Anthony Martial, whose contract situation and limited minutes under Erik ten Hag make him a likely departure in January. A loan deal with an option to buy could appeal to Milan, who have a history of revitalizing careers once written off in England.
With Pioli’s side chasing Champions League qualification and looking to keep pace with Inter and Juventus, the January window could prove decisive. Whether Milan opt for Zirkzee’s promise, the reliability of a Roma striker, or the redemption arc of a Premier League misfit, one thing is clear: the Rossoneri are determined to fix their attacking puzzle before it costs them their season.
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