Modest is not an adjective historically attached to Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Internazionale and his relaxed, almost nonchalant, response to speculation of a switch to Manchester United would suggest this summer's transfer tittle-tattle is all a bit beneath him.
Once famously described by his club manager, the equally self-assured 'Special One', Jose Mourinho, as the real recipient of the world player of the year award in an apparent jibe at countryman Cristiano Ronaldo, Ibrahimovic has emerged as the new figurehead wanted by Sir Alex Ferguson to beef up his attacking options.
The link is curious given that the Swedish man mountain was largely anonymous apart from the odd flash of brilliance over two legs against United in the Champions League last season.
The Nerazzurri favourite has scored goals in Italy's Serie A like Tuesday follows Monday and Inter officials have reiterated their most prized asset is not for sale despite interest from a number of Europe's leading clubs.
Ferguson is keen to bring in a muscle man to act as a foil for the likes of Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney and, having missed out on Karim Benzema of Lyon, has turned his attention to Ibrahimovic.
However, Ibrahimovic told the Inter Channel: "Have I read the newspapers in recent weeks? Yes, but I have not found anything interesting.
"What happens happens. I am happy to be here, I am as pleased as the first day when I came to Inter."
Nick Walsh writes features and betting previews for Betfair.
