Old Trafford side look to pounce for Nou Camp forward.

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Zlatan Ibrahimovic Scores 2nd Goal Barcelona 2009/10 Alex Song Arsenal Arsenal V Barcelona (2-2) 31/03/10 UEFA Champions League Quarter Final 1st Leg Photo Robin Parker Fotosports International Photo via Newscom

Manchester City have been playing second fiddle to their city rivals for years in terms of success, but one thing the mega-rich, blue half of Manchester thought they could now boast was a clear upper hand in the transfer market.

However, according to the Spanish Sport newspaper, Manchester United are looking to snatch Barcelona forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic from right under the noses of Manchester City .

The paper says that Ibrahimovic’s agent, Mino Raiola, went to Manchester a few days ago to talk to Manchester City about the future of one of his other clients, Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli. But during his stay, Raiola reportedly took the opportunity to talk with Manchester United representatives over the possible signing of Ibrahimovic.

Manchester City were thought to be the front-runners to sign the Swede and are apparently set to offer Barcelona €20 million plus Brazilian forward Robinho to secure his services.

But Ibrahimovic is said to now also be weighing up the option of a move to Old Trafford, and Manchester United Manager Sir Alex Ferguson has welcomed the signing of the 28-year-old. (IMScouting)

Sir Alex Ferguson may well be keen on a move for the Swedish international but clearly the biggest obstacle could be getting the funds for such a signing. The club is in approximately £1.1m worth of debt but that being said David Gill has stated that the Old Trafford boss will be given funds for new additions this summer but could that stretch to a move for a player who would cost around £38-40m to sign?

There has been a fair amount of unfair criticism heaped on the former Inter Milan, with many believing that he underperformed last term but that may be a little wide of the mark. The 28 year old did manage 21 goals last term and helped his side to the Spanish double, so not a bad season all in all.

Manchester City are of course ready to offer truly incredible amounts of money in the way of wages but clearly United can offer the giant forward Champions League football and the real possibility of top notch silverware.

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