Manchester United hero Clayton Blackmore says signing Zlatan Ibrahimovic would save the club's dismal season.

The Swede could return to the club in January during the MLS offseason, where he is currently playing for LA Galaxy.

"We're lacking a target man and the only thing that is going to save us this season is Ibrahimovic," Blackmore said.

"He has thrown his name in the hat and he's probably the best target man you can have. He's 6ft 5in, he's a black belt and he fancies his chances against ­anybody.

"He's still scoring goals, too. We have got rid of so many good ­strikers – (Wayne) Rooney went, (Robin) van Persie went, loads of them.

These players have gone but they haven't been replaced. Bringing Ibrahimovic in is a no-brainer. He doesn't run, but he doesn't need to because he is that good.

"There are not many players who can jog around the pitch and ­control the game, but, when he was here before, we won trophies with him, when he was fit.

"We should try and get him in January or whenever we can ­because he can lead the line."