Roma line up alternatives to Man Utd outcast Zirkzee as Gasperini eyes El Mala

Roma are exploring attacking options for January as they continue talks over Joshua Zirkzee, who is eager to leave Manchester United after struggling for game time under Ruben Amorim.

The Dutch forward, formerly of Bologna, has made just five substitute appearances this season and would welcome a return to Serie A, with Roma maintaining contact with his representatives.

At the same time, the Giallorossi are widening their search.

Rising Cologne star Said El Mala has caught the eye of Roma scouts, as well as several top European clubs including Inter, PSG, and Borussia Dortmund, as per the Corriere dello Sport.

The young German-Lebanese winger has scored four goals and provided two assists in the Bundesliga this season, earning a first senior call-up from Julian Nagelsmann.

El Mala’s valuation, however, has already risen from around €20m to €30m, and Cologne are determined to keep him until the summer unless faced with an irresistible offer.

Meanwhile, Roma also continue to monitor Arnaud Kalimuendo, currently at Nottingham Forest, as another potential attacking addition should deals for either Zirkzee or El Mala prove unfeasible.