LA Galaxy's coach says he'll think about Ibrahimovic deal 'once it happens'

Credit: AP

Los Angeles Galaxy coach Sigi Schmid has not ruled out the possibility of signing Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, saying he will only think about a deal "once it happens".

The 36-year-old was a revelation in his first season at Old Trafford, only for a serious knee injury to bring his campaign to a premature halt in April.

Ibrahimovic left United at the end of his one-year deal, only to re-sign for another season with Jose Mourinho's men towards the end of August having impressed on the road to recovery.

The Swede made seven appearances but has been sidelined with an issue affecting the same knee since Boxing Day as speculation continues to mount over a move to Major League Soccer.

Galaxy have long been linked with a move for Ibrahimovic but head coach Schmid is not getting carried away just yet.

"If it happens, it happens, and once it happens, then we'll give thought to it," the Galaxy head coach said, as reported on MLS' official website.

"Right now, it's preparing the group that I have and preparing the group that I have to win games.

"He's a big player. Big players have an impact on your team, whether that's Zlatan or whether that's (Lionel) Messi or a Neymar - guys like that have an impact on your team.

Ibrahimovic has struggled for fitness this season after returning from knee ligament damage last season. Credit: PA

"Obviously, he's been a successful player, he's won trophies everywhere he's been, but until it happens, I'm not going to worry about it."

Galaxy president Chris Klein was less forthcoming when asked how far discussions had progressed.

"We're nowhere," he said.

"We wouldn't comment on it."

Asked to confirm talks were ongoing, Klein said: "We wouldn't. It's unfair, because he's contracted to another club."