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Former Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has responded to rumors linking Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof with a move to Italian giants AC Milan. The 43-year-old called his compatriot a 'fantastic player', claiming that the Rossoneri are already 'working' to secure his services.
After spending his final playing years at Milan, Ibrahimovic hung his boots up following the conclusion of the 2022-23 campaign. Months later, he settled into a role as a 'senior adviser' at the club, getting involved in administrative decision-making and internal affairs.
On the other side, Lindelof has had a topsy-turvy career at Old Trafford. After joining as a promising defensive prospect from Benfica for a reported €35 million in 2017, he has been in and out of the Red Devils' lineup.
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He has made 266 appearances for United across all competitions thus far. He fell out of the lineup last season after suffering back-to-back injuries to his groin, hamstring, and toe. He has only made seven appearances (three starts) this season.
With Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, and Lisandro Martinez ahead of him in the pecking order, Lindelof is likely on the chopping block. His contract at the club expires at the end of the 2024-25 season and many are expecting him to move on to pastures new.
Amongst the sides reportedly interested in his services are Milan. While acknowledging Lindelof's quality, Ibrahimovic claimed that the club is working towards a potential move for the 30-year-old. The former Manchester United striker said (via United District h/t Sports Witness):
"There are a lot of rumours going around. That rumour is more because I'm Swedish, and Lindelof is Swedish. He's a fantastic player. I think he's doing well at United."
"We have many good players in that position. I don't know what he wants. I think you have to ask him. If we are there? You never know. We want a lot. And we're working for it," Ibrahimovic concluded.
Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof has 'offered himself' to Juventus amid AC Milan interest - Reports
According to reports from Italian news outlet Tuttosport, Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof has 'offered himself' to Serie A giants Juventus. He has also attracted interest from the Bianconeri's league rivals, AC Milan, and many other top European sides.
Juventus are currently in the midst of a minor injury crisis in defense. With Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal out with long-term cruciate ligament tears, the Old Lady will be looking for solutions in the January transfer window.
It is believed that Juve's sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, has an excellent relationship with Lindelof's agents, HCM Sports. However, Milan, through their senior adviser Zlatan Ibrahimovic, have put their interest in the Swedish defender on public record.
Between Juventus' desperate positional need and Ibrahimovic's national connection at Milan, an intense race for the Manchester United star's services is likely to ensue.
