Chapter 17: Reject

In fact, Miller had some solid candidates in mind for a transitional goalkeeper. He was leaning toward finding a more experienced player, someone who could not only step in but also mentor the younger talents coming through the ranks.

At the top of his list was Edwin van der Sar, currently playing for Fulham. Two years later, Van der Sar would transfer to Manchester United, experiencing a resurgence that cemented him as a United legend. Miller knew Van der Sar was still in prime condition, and acquiring him now could both solve City's goalkeeping dilemma and deal a blow to their local rivals, Manchester United. The thought of leaving Sir Alex Ferguson scrambling for a reliable keeper for a few more years was an added bonus.

This, however, was a deal to be pursued at the end of the season.

With the signing of Petr Čech complete, Miller had already spent close to £60 million of his £150 million budget. But this didn't slow down his spending spree. His next target? A top-class striker.

This time, Miller had his eye on two players, one of whom was Zlatan Ibrahimović, currently lighting up Ajax. For Miller, Zlatan was a bit of a puzzle. He knew the Swede's talent was undeniable—his incredible technique, despite his towering frame, made him a standout player. But there was something about Zlatan's style that made him question whether he could ever truly fit into a team built around a superstar.

Still, the idea of leaving such a unique talent on the table was too much to bear. Miller decided to go for it. If it didn't work out, he could always sell Zlatan in a few years and still make a profit.

With that decision made, he and Bernstein jetted off to the Netherlands to visit the Ajax club. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Ajax chairman Michael van Praag. When they expressed interest in buying the Swedish striker, Van Praag's face lit up with a curious expression.

"Ibrahimović is indeed a remarkable talent," Van Praag began, laying on the charm. "For someone so tall, his footwork is astonishing. You could say he's our next Van Basten..."

Miller raised an eyebrow. Van Praag's smooth words weren't lost on him. The chairman was clearly setting the stage for a hefty asking price. And while Van Praag's praise wasn't far off the mark, Miller knew he was angling for a big payday. After all, Ajax had a reputation for driving hard bargains.

Sensing where things were headed, Bernstein jumped in. "Mr. Chairman, what's Ajax's asking price for Ibrahimović?"

Van Praag sighed theatrically. "We're in the middle of the season, so we're not keen on selling any of our key players right now…"

Bernstein smiled. "We're planning for a summer transfer. We can set the deal for the end of the season."

Van Praag, now more at ease, leaned back in his chair. "In that case, we can certainly talk about it."

"And what's your price?" Bernstein asked.

The Ajax chairman gave a sly grin. "Our asking price is 40 million euros."

Bernstein practically choked on his own breath. Ronaldinho had cost 37 million euros, and now they wanted even more for a young Swedish striker?

Miller, ever composed, spoke up. "Mr. Chairman, that price is way too high. Our initial offer is 15 million euros. If you're open to serious negotiation, let's talk. If not, we won't waste any more time."

Van Praag chuckled. "Business is all about negotiation. How about 35 million euros?"

Miller shook his head. "17 million."

"30 million," Van Praag countered.

"19 million," Miller replied, unfazed.

"27 million."

"22 million," Miller offered, staying calm.

"24 million," Van Praag finally said.

Miller thought for a moment, then nodded. "Deal."

Van Praag smiled, pleased with the outcome. "This is fair. I'll notify Ibrahimović immediately."

As Van Praag left to inform Zlatan, Miller couldn't help but notice the old man's smug expression. He'd tripled his investment—he'd bought Ibrahimović for 7.8 million euros, and now sold him for 24 million. It was a big win for Ajax. But Miller didn't mind. For him, 24 million euros was a fair price for Zlatan, even if slightly overpriced.

Fifteen minutes later, the door opened, and in walked a towering young man with short hair, standing over 1.9 meters tall. Zlatan carried himself with an air of rebellion, his expression proud and defiant.

Miller nodded to himself. The guy already had that arrogant, untouchable aura. He was the kind of player who could walk into Ajax's dressing room and declare, "I am Zlatan, who the hell are you?"—and get away with it.

After a brief introduction by Van Praag, Zlatan looked at Miller and Bernstein with a cool detachment. "Good morning, gentlemen," he said, his voice tinged with superiority.

Miller raised an eyebrow. This kid was cocky. He liked that. But before Miller could respond, Zlatan dropped a bombshell. "I'm sorry, but Manchester City isn't in my career plan. I can't transfer to your club."

The room fell silent for a moment. Both Miller and Bernstein were stunned. Zlatan had rejected them outright, without even hearing them out. Even Van Praag looked embarrassed, clearly not expecting his player to shut the door so abruptly.

And then, Miller laughed. His earlier doubts about whether Zlatan could fit into his team vanished. The Swede had just made the decision for him.

Miller stood up, facing Zlatan with a smile. "Mr. Ibrahimović, I can only say that you've missed the best opportunity to win real honors."

With that, he nodded to Van Praag, signaled to Bernstein, and walked out of Ajax's office without looking back.

In the battle of egos, how could Miller—a billionaire club owner—let himself be outdone?

Van Praag hurried after them, trying to salvage the situation. "Mr. Miller, Mr. Bernstein, we still have Sneijder and Van der Vaart. I can offer you a good deal…"

Miller waved him off. "No need. We're not interested."

And with that, Miller left Ajax empty-handed but with his pride fully intact.