Man Utd Transfer News: Zlatan Ibrahimovic wanted Real Madrid move before return

ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC wanted to join Real Madrid instead of Manchester United, reports say.

Ferdinand and Hargreaves praise Ibrahimovic's return

Manchester United announced Ibrahimovic had signed a one-year deal earlier this week, just months after the Red Devils had released him.

During his time as a free agent, the veteran was tipped to join the likes of AC Milan and MLS side LA Galaxy.

However, Spanish outlet Diario Gol claim Ibrahimovic had his heart set on a move to Real Madrid.

The striker infamously spent a year at Barcelona, before a fall-out with Pep Guardiola forced the La Liga giants to sell him to Serie A side AC Milan.

But, despite plying his trade at the home of their La Liga rivals, Ibrahimovic was keen to move to the Bernabeu.

Man Utd Transfer News: Zlatan Ibrahimovic wanted to end his career at Real Madrid

It is said his agent, Mino Raiola, held talks with the Spanish club. 

Zlatan Ibrahimovic foresaw himself bowing out on a high with the current Champions League holders.

But Real were not interested, with Cristiano Ronaldo particularly against his signing. 

Speaking on Thursday after sealing his return, Ibrahimovic said he had "unfinished business".

Man Utd Transfer News Zlatan Ibrahimovic Real MadridGETTY

Man Utd Transfer News: Zlatan Ibrahimovic wanted to play for Real Madrid

Man Utd Transfer News Zlatan Ibrahimovic Real MadridGETTY

Man Utd Transfer News: Despite playing for Barcelona Zlatan Ibrahimovic wanted to join Real Madrid

"I feel good, work hard," the Manchester United striker said in an interview with ESPN. 

"I didn't have a day off since the injury because I wanted to keep playing on the top level. 

“To do that, you need to build up the knee ... I didn't want to return back something I wasn't."

"I am back to finish what I started.”

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