Transfer news

'Serie A won't have any stars left'

July 15, 2012
By ESPN staff

The sale of Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Paris Saint-Germain will leave Serie A without any "big players", according to the Sweden international's agent.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic
AssociatedZlatan Ibrahimovic: PSG payday

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PSG completed the signing of Thiago Silva from AC Milan on Saturday and, though talks continue over Ibrahimovic, he is expected to follow suit.

Agent Mino Raiola has now warned that the departure of the duo will be a significant blow to Italian football.

"When he is gone, there will not be any big players in Italian football left," Raiola told L'Equipe. "In my opinion, Zlatan is the best player in the world. He has the soul of a winner. He is a player who, on his own, can make a stadium sparkle.

"Zlatan will make Ligue 1 more interesting and his departure will make Serie A poorer. He is powerful, elegant and has wonderful technique. I hope the French fans will enjoy watching him play.

"His arrival at PSG would be an exceptional event as, usually, we only see that kind of deal in England. Now, it is possible in Paris, this fascinating and magnificent capital. Besides the city, we are really interested in PSG's project. What is happening at the club is exciting."

While talks between Raiola and PSG sporting director Leonardo have yet to result in an agreement, the agent remains optimistic.

"If Zlatan had a problem with the idea of playing in France then I would not have come to Paris for three days," Raiola said. "Right now, nothing is settled. We will keep working as every detail is important in a contract, but I hope to find a deal with PSG. This weekend is a time for reflection."