Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is believed to be keen on a return to Manchester United as he steps up his rehabilitation from the cruciate ligament injury he suffered against Anderlecht in April this year in the Europa League.
The Guardian report that the Swede, who turns 36 in October, has told manager Jose Mourinho that he wants to play for the club again and the Portuguese manager is open to the idea of the striker returning as long as he can prove his fitness.
Zlatan was United's top goalscorer last season, chipping in with 28 goals and is expected to return from injury in January.
Although a contract would have to be agreed between the club and the player, it is understood that both are happy to reach a deal to extend his stay at Old Trafford.
Mourinho spoke before the UEFA Super Cup Final that a deal is being readied for Ibrahimovic's return:
Maybe he’ll stay with us.
He’s not got a contract, but he’s still close to Manchester, and the fact we are involved in the Super Cup now is also his merit.
If the deal is to materialise, it would be a major boost for the club if they are challenging for the title in January.
The club have spent £75 million on striker Romelu Lukaku and the only cover they have for the Belgian is Marcus Rashford, but Mourinho likes playing the Englishman out on the wide left and the signing of Zlatan would not only provide valuable cover for the pair but increased competition for a place in the starting XI.
Although the striker would not be a new addition, it would be like a new signing if they can bring in the calibre of Zlatan for the title run in, not only because of his goals but also because of his completely driven mentality to be the best and to win.
Something which Manchester United have severely lacked since Sir Alex Ferguson retired four years ago.
