Zlatan Ibrahimovic blown away by Widell Zetterstrom as strong Leeds transfer rumour emerges

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has already given his approval to Leeds United target Jacob Widell Zetterstrom.

The Derby County stopper featured in Sweden's 1-1 World Cup draw with Japan, replacing Kristoffer Nordfeldt between the sticks.

He produced a brilliant performance on his debut at the tournament, one that has left suitors on notice.

Fabrizio Romano has reported that Leeds have made contact for Zetterstrom, checking on the asking price for the Pride Park ace.

Eintracht Frankfurt and Wolves have also entered the race for his signature, so they may face a battle.

Ibrahimovic has also outlined why those clubs are interested in the 27-year-old.

What Zlatan Ibrahimovic said about Widell Zetterstrom

Ibrahimovic was impressed by Widell Zetterstrom's showing in his first game at the tournament.

The goalkeeper made two saves in the contest, one of which was to keep his side level in the first-half.

The former Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan forward was blown away as he denied Reims forward Keito Nakamura in the 45th minute.

Speaking on FOX's live broadcast, he said: “Fantastic! Keep making those saves.”

That is high praise indeed for the man that the Whites reportedly want to add to their ranks in the transfer window.

How Widell Zetterstrom reacted to the praise

The Championship ace smiled when he heard the praise from the Swedish legend.

He showed humility and opened up about his feelings in the moment, in quotes reported by Sportbladet, saying: “I thank you for that.

"When the situations come, you have to be alert and do your part, but then, if I remember correctly, they got a corner right afterwards, so I couldn't stare out at the jumbotron and be too happy."

That is the kind of attitude that the Whites need in their squad, players who are not brashy and believe their own hype, and want to leave after one good season.

They need stars who are willing to fight for the collective goal and put the team first to ensure survival or a bigger goal, and Widell Zetterstrom's reaction to the comments suggests that he just that.

Perhaps he can finally put an end to the goalkeeping chaos at Elland Road, with question marks over Karl Darlow and Lucas Perri's status going into the new season.

Only time will tell whether the Peacocks firm up their interest, but based on his showing on Friday morning, they should try and make him part of their team.

If they succeed in their pursuit, he could help them push to the next level.