Ibrahimovic: I wanted to join Madrid

AC Milan forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic revealed he has previously asked Barcelona if he could join rivals Real Madrid.

The Swedish international's career at the Nou Camp came to an abrupt end after a fall-out with coach Pep Guardiola, joining AC Milan on an initial loan deal with the option to make it permanent at €24 million.

In his autobiography, the 30-year-old admitted he wanted to join the Los Blancos but was not allowed to.

"The president said: 'I understand the situation. Which club do you want to join?' I replied: 'Madrid.' Rosell replied: 'That is not possible. You can go anywhere but there," he was quoted as saying.

"Rosell, [Milan CEO Adriano] Galliani, [agent Mino Raiola], my lawyer and [Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria] Bartomeu were all there, and Sandro said: 'I want you to know that this is the worst piece of business I have conducted in my life.' I replied: 'It's the result of bad leadership.'"

Ibrahimovic has enjoyed a prolific time at Milan, scoring 30 goals in 50 games for the Rossoneri.