Paris Saint-Germain to open contract talks with Ibrahimovic

Paris Saint-Germain will open talks with striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic about extending his stay in the French capital, club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has confirmed.

The Swede's contract at the Parc des Princes expires next summer, and Les Parisiens are desperate to keep hold of their prized asset.

The 34-year-old surpassed Pauleta's goal-scoring record at PSG earlier this year, and his solitary strike against Malmo on Wednesday - the club where he began his career - brought him equal with the club's European goal record, set by George Weah.

"We're very happy for him," Al-Khelaifi told L'Equipe, according to ESPN FC. "He's very proud of his city. The fact he scored is wonderful."

It is not just Ibrahimovic's on-field talents that attract other clubs on the continent - he's also one of the most recognisable figures in the game, and his marketability means he would boost the development of cash-rich leagues such as Major League Soccer, the Chinese Super League, and Qatar Stars League.

With plenty of rivals for Ibrahimovic's signature, Al-Khelaifi appreciates that getting him to extend his stay in Paris is not a given.

"Will he stay with us next year? Why not? But we'll have to talk about it with him and now is not the right time."

PSG's comprehensive victory over Malmo resulted in the club's progression into the Champions League Round of 16 with a match to spare. The team returns to domestic duties with the visit of bottom-placed Troyes on Saturday.