Paolo Maldini: 'Zlatan Ibrahimovic is part of AC Milan future'

AC Milan sporting director Paolo Maldini has suggested that Zlatan Ibrahimovic will be a part of the club for next season.

After struggling in the first half of their campaign, AC Milan have lost only twice since Ibrahimovic's arrival in January from Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy.

However, the 38-year-old's contract has almost expired and it is now up to the club's hierarchy to decide whether the Swedish striker will be rewarded with an extension.

"We have created something this season which needs continuity. Zlatan is part of this project," club legend Maldini told ESPN.

"It won't be any easy negotiation but we want to move forward with him. In attack with him we feel content, then there are Ante Rebic and Rafael Leao as well as other young players who can grow exponentially with him. That is our line."

Ibrahimovic scored 10 Serie A goals in 18 league appearances as he helped guide Milan to a sixth-placed finish as well as qualifying for the Europa League.