Paris Saint-Germain forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic faces a difficult decision this summer, with his contract with the Ligue 1 champions coming to an end.
The Swedish international has insisted that he hasn’t held talks with any interested parties at this stage, as noted by Sky Sports, as his full focus is on helping the Parisian giants secure a significant trophy haul this season before leading Sweden at Euro 2016 in France this summer.
Nevertheless, that hasn’t stopped the rumour mill from discussing where he could end up, with clubs in China, the Middle East and MLS naturally expected to be monitoring his situation.
However, for a player that has made winning a hallmark of his career, with league titles in Holland, Italy, Spain, and France in his trophy cabinet as well as countless individual accolades, it is almost guaranteed that he will pick a winning option.
Speculation has linked him with a move to the Premier League, with all the top clubs paired with an interest. There is only one option that makes sense though, and that is a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford.
A move to Manchester City can immediately be ruled out, as after enduring a contentious spell with Pep Guardiola at Barcelona, the pair won’t be in rush to work together again.
Arsenal can also be ruled out of the equation, as it is highly unlikely that a club which has based its philosophy on developing young players is going to hand a 34-year-old that demands a high wage a lucrative deal.
That in turn leaves United and Chelsea, but the former AC Milan and Inter star hasn’t particularly endeared himself to the Blues following their Champions League clashes in the past three seasons.
Ibrahimovic was also highly critical of the behaviour of the Chelsea players when he was sent off at Stamford Bridge last season, and so a move to west London would seem unlikely.
As a result, all roads arguably lead to the red half of Manchester and a second spell alongside Mourinho. The Portuguese tactician has been strongly linked with replacing Louis van Gaal at the helm this summer, as reported by the Metro, and the pair still enjoy a strong relationship after their time at the San Siro together.
In turn, what better duo to tackle the tactical genius and significant funds of Guardiola and City, which in turn will set up a fascinating season next year that will see one of the greats of his generation join the Premier League title race.