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Football

21st Dec 2016

Zlatan Ibrahimovic gives his verdict on Manchester United’s potential next signing

"Is he good enough for United?"

Rob Burnett

Manchester United have reportedly opened talks with Benfica to bring defender Victor Lindelof to Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old centre half is being linked with a £38m switch to United after impressing for the Portuguese side.

But is he good enough to handle the pressure of performing for such a big club?

His fellow Swede Zlatan Ibrahimovic knows exactly what it takes to shine at Old Trafford having joined in the summer and scoring 16 goals so far this season under new boss Jose Mourinho – and he thinks the youngster has what it takes.

“He is growing. He has a lot of responsibility with the national team now,” Ibrahimovic said.

“Is he good enough for United? I think he is ready for the big clubs out there. It is up to him what he wants and what the situation says. Whatever he chooses, it will be good for him.

“I know he is hot on the market so let him make the right choice for him.”

SOLNA, SWEDEN - MARCH 29: Swedens Victor Nilsson Lindelof during the international friendly between Sweden and Czech Republic at Friends Arena on March 29, 2016 in Solna, Sweden. (Photo by Marcus Ericsson/Ombrello/Getty Images)(Photo by Marcus Ericsson/Ombrello/Getty Images)

Benfica boss Rui Vitoria this week would not rule out the possibility of Lindelof leaving.

“If it happens to a player we will be prepared and we will find solutions,” he said.

“There is always the prospect of someone leaving and it does not have implications on our work.

“It could be anyone. Many of them have a lot of quality and are attractive in the market, especially at their age.”