United Will Offer Ibra New Contract Only On One Condition
Reuters / Andrew Yates
Zlatan Ibrahimovic was released by Manchester United at the end of last campaign, but club manager Jose Mourinho recently confirmed that his side is in talks with the forward over a contract extension.
The Swedish international’s spell in Manchester seemingly came to an end following a horrific injury he suffered during last season’s Europa League quarter-finals. And though Ibrahimovic’s contract expired soon after the end of the season, United offered a generous gesture by providing him complete access to the club’s training facilities.
Since joining the Red Devils from French side Paris-Saint Germain last season, the decorated forward ended his season as the club’s top scorer – bagging 28 goals and 8 assists. He also helped his side secure the Europa League title, as they beat Ajax 2-0 in the final and earned a Champions League spot.
Ironically, though the Swede isn’t expected to be back in action before December, the Premier League giants are willing to extend his stay, as confirmed by Mourinho. However, there is a catch.
Ibrahimovic was under a £365,000-a-week deal last season, but the Daily Star claim he will have to accept a huge pay cut to rejoin the Red Devils. Considering his age, the centre-forward must surely be contemplating this offer.
When quizzed about the former Barcelona man’s future, the United boss said: “Possible, it’s open, of course we wanted to be honest and open and let everything for him to make the decision. We are changing ideas and it’s with Mr Woodward and Zlatan’s agent but the final decision is the best for the player.”
Meanwhile, the Portuguese manager has already secured the signature of Romelu Lukaku, and having a lethal finisher like Zlatan as a backup could turn out to be very useful towards the end of the campaign. The 35-year-old is currently a free agent, and could soon announce his stay at Old Trafford.
Written by Ashish Sreejith 
Have had two addictions in life- playing football and watching football. Usually described as introverted but not when it comes to speaking and writing about the beautiful game of football.