Bitter end to Swede hopes?
Ibrahimovic’s agent claims he may not move to United
LONDON: Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s agent has dented Manchester United’s hopes of signing the Swedish superstar – claiming the striker’s destination will be a surprise.
The Red Devils have made their move for the out-of-contract star with clubs in Europe, the United States and China all vying to land him.
United hope to tie up a deal to reunite new boss Jose Mourinho with the striker who helped him win the Serie A title in his first season in charge at Inter Milan.
The Old Trafford club appeared in pole position to land Ibrahimovic despite mega money offers from China – with West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur also linked with moves – after he hinted United were his number one choice.
But agent Mino Raiola says a decision is still some way off on the former Paris St Germain striker’s future and that his ultimate destination is far from clear cut.
He said: “We have not decided anything yet. I think it will be a surprise in the end. Everyone is harping on about only United, United, United.
“There are some clubs in England, a few clubs in Europe, clubs outside Europe, but everyone assumes that he must go to Manchester United, but it is not true.
“The club that buy him do not have to pay a transfer fee. This means that Ibrahimovic, who just finished a record season at PSG, can get an extra high salary. He is in a good bargaining position.
“It’s not important to arrange something quickly, I care only about arranging something with quality. I’m not in a hurry. No running behind me and chasing me.
“It’s about doing the right thing at the right time. The only thing we care about is quality. Let’s see what happens. But we have a nice period ahead of us now.”
One option that Raiola is ruling out, however, is Ibrahimovic hanging up his boots after taking part in this summer’s European Championship.
He added: “If I live, the answer is no. If I live so it does not happen. It’s the only thing I can guarantee Sweden, he will not quit. But where he will play next season, I cannot say anything about.” — The Sun, London