West Ham United have been busy scouting for forward options under their new manager, Nuno Espírito Santo. Their focus, however, seems more long-term than immediate. Meanwhile, several Premier League clubs have turned their attention to Manchester United’s forward Joshua Zirkzee. His uncertain future now draws interest from sides searching for goals.

In this scenario, former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson told Football Insider that Manchester United could receive around £30 million for the Dutch forward. That figure has attracted Everton and West Ham United. Both clubs want to strengthen their attacking department in January.

Everton have struggled to find consistent output up front, so they plan to make a move for another striker to add more bite to their attack. Nuno, on the other hand, would be looking to bring more firepower into West Ham’s squad and steady results in a demanding season. Borson explained that Manchester United spent between £30 and £40 million on Zirkzee, far less than what clubs usually pay for elite strikers.

His wages stay manageable. Borson said the player hasn’t impressed fully but remains a sellable asset. He believes Zirkzee can fetch £30 million in the current market. Teams like Everton and West Ham can afford that figure or set up a loan deal with an option to buy.

“Well, he’s a very sellable player. I mean, they didn’t pay £60-70m for him. They paid between £30-40 million.

“His wages are probably manageable. He’s been an okay player. He’s not been a complete disaster. I think there are signs that he could be worth £30m to somebody. 

“I think the sorts of teams that could afford £30m or a loan with a view to a £30m deal are the Everton’s and the West Ham’s of this world.” 

The 24-year-old now stands out as one of the more interesting names before the winter window. Meanwhile, West Ham United also consider a move for Ivan Toney, and the Hammers also want to offer Luis Guilherme plus cash to sign Vitor Roque. Both stories show their intent to bring in a top striker before the second half of the season starts.

Comparing The Risk And Reward Of Signing Zirkzee

To decide whether West Ham United should spend £30 million on Joshua Zirkzee, one must look at his performances for Bologna and Manchester United, and how his strengths suit West Ham’s current needs.

Arguments for paying £30 million:

Zirkzee showed strong potential at Bologna in the 2023–24 season. He scored 11 goals and provided four assists in 34 Serie A matches, and helped them qualify for the Champions League. The Dutchman’s link-up play, quick dribbling in tight spaces, and ability to adapt to different systems could suit West Ham’s tactics.

The Hammers’ striker situation is worrying, especially after Niclas Füllkrug’s injury. Callum Wilson keeps struggling with injuries, and younger players lack experience.

Arguments against paying £30 million:

Zirkzee failed to repeat his Serie A form at Manchester United. He scored only three goals in 32 Premier League games during the 2024–25 season. The 24-year-old must still adjust to the league’s physical nature and faster pace. Although he showed flashes of ability, he faced tough competition for minutes.

His lack of consistent playing time raises doubts about his readiness to perform at a top level. West Ham could look elsewhere, perhaps finding loan options or signing players already proven in the Premier League. With limited funds, that might be a safer move.

West Ham must decide if they trust Zirkzee to rediscover his Bologna form and handle the Premier League’s demands. He has talent, but his price remains steep for a player yet to prove himself in England. The club should review other realistic options with proven reliability before spending heavily. What are your thoughts West Ham fans?