Jose Mourinho should be feeling pretty smug about life at Manchester United.

The Special One might not have garnered all the transfer targets he desired yet, but it seems he’s finally turned a corner at Old Trafford. The Red Devils look poised for their first title challenge since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.

There is certainly room for improvement in the squad yet the club has accumulated an enviable depth to their side. Moreover, only Barcelona stood in their way of a perfect pre-season record.

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One air of uncertainty around the club, though, surrounds the future of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The Swede suffered a horrific knee injury against Anderlecht in April that looked to rule the forward out for nearly a year. Coupled with his age, 35, this prompted United to release him and seemingly reject the chance to extend his one-year deal.

However, Ibrahimovic has made a startlingly swift recovery and one that could see him return to the pitch as early as November. His rehabilitation has been so remarkable that Mino Raiola has cited the astonishment of his doctors.

It has somewhat clouded the issue and tempted United into potentially signing him on again for another season. After all, the 35-year-old amassed 28 goals in 48 outings for the club last year.

As both a friend and his latest manager, you would look upon Mourinho as one of the best people to ask regarding the situation and the Special One hasn’t refrained from discussing it.

After United’s friendly with Barcelona, the 54-year-old was quizzed about his capture of Romelu Lukaku for £75 million. However, the discussion quickly pandered to their other, potential top striker.

According to the Daily Mail, he said: “We spent big money on a striker because, with strikers, you either spend or you don't get.

“And we spent because of what happened to Zlatan and we can not allow ourselves to be without an important, strong striker for the first six months of the season.”

Just for the first six months, hey, Jose?

His comments certainly suggest that, had he not moved for another forward, he would at least have Zlatan to fill the void by the New Year at worst. It will certainly be music to ears of United fans too.

An attacking arsenal of Marcus Rashford, Lukaku and Ibrahimovic would be quite the force to take into next season. Either way, though, expect United to be in the mix when the chips are down next April and May.

And if Zlatan is involved, you can anticipate something special.

Do you think Manchester United should re-sign Ibrahimovic this summer? Let us know by leaving a comment below.