Leeds United Rules Out Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Confirms Interest In Another Legendary Striker

As Leeds United prepares for its Premier League return, team owner Andrea Radrizzani has decided to rule out the possibility of signing veteran striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic. But he confirmed that the club is interested in another legendary player, Edinson Cavani.

Leeds will officially compete in the Premier League once again next season after 16 long years. Undeniably, the Whites are looking to maximize what they could get this coming transfer window.

Club owner Radrizzani seems to be eager to make a grand debut to mark their Premier League return. In fact, Leeds has been linked to an array of top prospects, including veterans. Back in January, the Whites reportedly attempted to sign Ibrahimovic. However, Leeds failed to lure the Swedish legend, who decided to join AC Milan.

Speaking to Sky Sports Italy (via Football Italia), Radrizzani revealed that landing Ibrahimovic will be “difficult” and hinted that the veteran may not meet the team’s requirements as they look to be a competitive squad coming into the Premier League.

“Ibrahimovic will certainly be difficult. We tried to sign him in January, but he chose to join Milan and the deal vanished. Now I think it’s too late, the intensity of English football is different,” Radrizzani said.

However, Radrizzani confirmed that they are more hopeful in luring another legendary striker, Cavani, ahead of his PSG release. Leeds will be looking to utilize Cavani’s Ligue 1 exit via a free transfer.

“In addition to his quality, Cavani could contribute with his physicality and adapt here. But I’ve never talked about him with the coach [Marcelo Bielsa]. Having said that, we’ve certainly thought about him and we’ll see. Given he’s still available on a free transfer,” he revealed.

Ibrahimovic has proven that he can still contribute significantly to Milan. This season, he has scored six goals in 16 appearances. Despite having a great time with the Italian side, the well-rounded hitman has yet to commit to any club for the 2020-21 season.

After all, Ibrahimovic is aware that his days in the sport could be numbered. Following a thrilling victory over Juventus on July 7, the 38-year-old spoke candidly to DAZN (via ESPN) about his future and insisted that he will know when to finally call it a career.

“I'm 38 years old. I don't have the physique that I had, but I am smart about it. I don't try to do the same things I did when I was 20. If I don't make the difference, then I don't like that. I am not here to be a mascot. I am here to help my teammates, club and fans,” Ibrahimovic said.