Everton are making a strong push to sign Joshua Zirkzee this summer, as the Dutch striker looks set to leave Manchester United after a frustrating season. The 24-year-old forward struggled for consistent game time at Old Trafford during the 2025-26 campaign, and reports now suggest that a move to Goodison Park is gaining serious momentum.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, who knows Zirkzee well from his time at the club, has spoken highly of the player. Brown praised the striker's work ethic, noting that he "puts in a real shift" every match and shows a genuine desire to make things happen on the pitch. While competition from the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo limited Zirkzee's opportunities at United, Brown believes the situation is very different at Everton.
According to Brown, Zirkzee is a perfect fit for David Moyes' system. The Netherlands international excels at holding up the ball, linking play with teammates, and making intelligent runs behind the defence. These qualities could be exactly what Everton need as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Zirkzee's numbers at United tell a story of limited opportunities: he managed just 5 starts and 2 goals in the 2025-26 season, a significant drop from the 22 starts and 7 goals he recorded the previous year. A move to Everton could offer him the regular minutes he craves, while also providing Moyes with a tireless runner up front.
"A move to Everton is a real possibility for Zirkzee," Brown said. "Whatever you might say about his time at Man United, he does put in a shift, he works hard, and you can never accuse him of not trying his best to make an impact. It might not be good enough for Man United, where he's competing with the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo, but that's not the case at Everton. He's perfect for David Moyes because he works hard, he can hold the ball up and bring his teammates into play, and he's not afraid to move in behind the defence as well."
The potential deal could be a win for all parties involved. Manchester United would recoup some funds, Zirkzee would get the playing time he needs to reignite his career, and Everton would add a determined, hard-working striker to their squad. For a team looking to build momentum under Moyes, a player with Zirkzee's tenacity and technical ability could be exactly what the doctor ordered.