Man Utd News: Zlatan Ibrahimovic ignored Peter Reid when Sunderland tried to sign him

Manchester United striker Ibrahimovic has enjoyed a stunning career, turning out for the likes of Barcelona, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus.

But the 36-year-old could have ended up at Sunderland if former Black Cats boss Peter Reid had got his way.

Reid has admitted to trying to sign a teenage Ibrahimovic during his time at the Stadium Light, back when the striker was plying his trade in Holland with Ajax.

And when he saw the striker, a cocky Ibrahimovic smiled at him but refused to say a single word to him.

"I liked his physique and I liked his feet,” he told the Daily Mail.

"I tried. I tried. When he was at Malmo I tried to get him but he went to Ajax.

"We were at Roker Park, but no chance. I didn't have that clout to attract him.

"When he was at Ajax, we'd moved to the Stadium of Light so I went over, had a meeting.

"I thought I had a chance, but no. We offered £6million which was decent dough, but they wanted more.

"I saw him walk past and he smiled. But no conversation."

Ibrahimovic is set to return for United’s crunch festive schedule.

Some reports have said the Red Devils’ clash with Arsenal on December 2 is being pencilled in as his return date.

Ibrahimovic re-signed for United in August, and will be aiming to build on the 28 goals he scored during his maiden season in English football.