Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that the club will exercise the option of an additional year in the contract of Zlatan Ibrahimovic which would see the fiery forward at Old Trafford until the summer of 2018.

The 35-year old has joined Manchester United on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain earlier this summer on a one-year deal with an option to extend it by another year.

The Swede has been very effective for the club despite not being at his lethal best like he had been at PSG last year. However, despite all the criticism Zlatan has managed eight goals in 17 games this season and could only get better with his adaptation to the football in England.

‘Zlatan’s situation is simple. He has a one-plus-one year in the club. We are happy with him. We are going to execute the option of a second season,’ Mourinho said ahead of the Europa League clash against Feyenoord.

‘So in two years he can do what he wants because he is free. In the next 18 months, he is happy, committed, loving his life as a football player at United – the last big challenge of his career.

‘It’s perfect for him to be here 18 months and then it is his decision.’

The contract will mean Zlatan will play until he is close to 37 before making a decision on his future as he has admitted that he is eyeing a move to Major Soccer League in the US post his spell at Old Trafford.

When asked about his contract extension, the Swedish legend said he is more concentrated on his performance and has also confirmed no talks have taken place so far. He is currently earning a massive £260,000 per week at the club.

‘For the moment we haven’t had any discussions,’ Ibrahimovic said. ‘The second goes automatic after a while – after certain things. If it continues like this then yes.

‘I feel good, I feel fresh and in shape. Physically I feel like I can do a second year. If I’m here I want to be able to perform like I can do.’