Report: World-class striker rejects Newcastle United’s contract offer

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If there is one position that Newcastle United need to strengthen this summer, it’s up front. Record-signing Joelinton has struggled in his debut campaign and the Brazilian could do with some help next season.

The Magpies’ ownership status is still up in the air. Back when the Saudi group were set to take over, Newcastle were linked with a whole host of top quality players.

Now that the Saudi move is unlikely to go through, the excitement levels among Newcastle fans have come down, and the Magpies aren’t expected to bring in top-tier players this summer.

However, Steve Bruce’s side did reportedly make a move to sign one of the most decorated footballers in the world this week. Calcio Mercato have claimed that Newcastle tabled a proposal to sign Zlatan Ibrahimovic this summer.

The Swede’s contract at Milan expires this month, after which he will be a free agent. Sadly though, he has rejected the Magpies’ offer in favour of a new deal at the San Siro.

What a signing this could have been!

Signing Ibrahimovic would have been a massive statement of intent by the Magpies, and doing so even before their takeover was complete would have sent a strong message to all Premier League sides.

Ibrahimovic has had an incredible career so far. The 38-year-old has won 11 league titles and another 22 trophies across Europe. Despite being 38, he seemed incredibly fit for Milan last season, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists in 20 games.

A return like that would go down very well at Newcastle but, sadly, he has decided to continue with Milan. Ibrahimovic has even agreed to lower his wages to secure a new deal with the Rossoneri, which shows that signing a new contract there was always his priority.

Newcastle deserve credit for making a move for the world-class Swede. Ibrahimovic would certainly have been a sensational addition to their squad. However Bruce and co should now focus on bringing in a different striker before the season starts in about three weeks.