Paris Saint-Germain forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic has fuelled rumours of an exit from the Parc des Princes this summer, with the Swedish international speaking out about speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United. When asked about his future, he responded: “Should I stay in Paris? My future is in the hands of (agent) Mino Raiola.”
While there’s every chance Ibrahimovic could be toying with the media to create a story, United manager Louis van Gaal did recently backtrack from his claims that the side may not sign a new striker this summer, so there could be some truth to the rumours. The PSG man has long regretted not moving to the Premier League in his career, and did previously feel the ship had sailed when Manchester City were being linked with his signature.
It’s unknown how the Red Devils would line up with the likes of Ibrahimovic in the attack alongside Wayne Rooney, but the striker has already held talks with the PSG president Nasser Al Khelaifi over his future when AC Milan wanted a reunion this summer, so it’s clear Ibrahimovic is open to the right move. And with Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal admitted it would be a leftfield choice coming to Old Trafford to bolster the attack, Ibrahimovic is fast becoming the bookies’ favourite.
Enjoying a successful and nomadic domestic career, the Premier League is the one major division Zlatan Ibrahimovic has eluded so far. He’s had offers in the past, but has never been convinced to make the move. Rumours have been taking over suggesting Angel Di Maria could go in the opposite direction, but it’s highly unlikely United would allow the Argentina winger to leave without reclaiming a large portion of the transfer fee they paid for him.
Manchester United do need another striker, however, with only Javier Hernandez and James Wilson the other options should first-choice Wayne Rooney not be available. With the most notable signings of Memphis Depay (£25M from PSV Eindhoven) and Bastian Schweinsteiger (£12M approx from Bayern Munich), supporters are expecting another big name through the doors.
The Red Devils need a prolific frontman who can take the scoring burden off Rooney next season, and one who can hit a tally of 30 goals in the Premier League to help lead the side to a genuine title challenge. The departed Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao just couldn’t cut it last season, but could Ibrahimovic shine?
