Ruud for Ibrahimovic?
Wednesday, April 30, 2008

According to DiarioSport, Inter Milan are ready to sell Zlatan Ibrahimovic if Ruud Van Nistelrooy is included in exchange.

Madrid are looking for a new first striker this summer, as Van Nistelrooy, who is set to turn 32 in a few months, is likely to move on to pastures new.

In the last few days the Spanish champions-elect have been heavily linked with a bid for Ibrahimovic, with some sources claiming that they are prepared to pay up to €70m.

The Swede has been dreadfully poor in the second half of the season, and hasn’t scored in open play for over three months.

More worryingly, and a reason for this dip in form, is the fact that the 26-year-old is suffering from a chronic knee injury, and there are fears the forward may require an operation.

Inter President Massimo Moratti is now considering selling Ibrahimovic to Madrid, providing Van Nistelrooy moves to San Siro as part of the deal.

One problem in this exchange could be the Dutchman's £6 million-a-year wages, which the oil tycoon is reluctant to match.

There were also reports in the media a few days ago that Ibrahimovic could be on his way to Barcelona in exchange for Lionel Messi, after Moratti admitted to liking the Argentine superstar.

It is difficult to tell how much credibility should be attached to these conflicting reports, but what has seemed apparent is that Ibrahimovic's future is far from secure. Whether Madrid, or Barca for that matter, can land him is another matter.


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