Manchester United are inching closer to sealing a move for Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred this summer. According to recent reports, the Brazilian talent could become United’s first signing of this summer transfer window as Jose Mourinho looks to revamp his squad ahead of the new season.
Some sources are now claiming that the Red Devils will secure the services of Fred at the start of June. It is expected that Mourinho is looking to get his transfer dealings done early in this window with the 2018 FIFA World Cup set to kick off in Russia next month. The 25-year-old midfielder will be part of the Brazilian squad for the World Cup and is all set to travel with the national side for a friendly match against Croatia at Anfield.
Recent reports have also suggested that Fred could finalise his transfer to United during his stay at the North-west of England. Anfield is just around 29 miles away from the Manchester outfit’s Carrington training complex, where Fred would have to undergo a medical. The Brazilian has a €60m (£52.89m) release clause in his current contract with the Ukrainian side, which won’t derail United’s chances of landing the player.
It is understood that Mourinho is on the lookout for a new midfielder after the retirement of Michael Carrick at the end of last season. Fred fits the bill perfectly and has been a standout player for Shakhtar Donetsk which has seen him put in a number of dazzling displays for the Ukrainians over the course of the last few seasons.
The potential acquisition of Fred will undoubtedly bolster Mourinho’s midfield options at Old Trafford. The Red Devils have an array of midfield talents such as Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Ander Herrera, Scott McTominay and Marouane Fellaini competing for a starting berth in Mourinho’s first-team. The addition of a player of Fred’s talents will definitely strengthen the Red Devils midfield and add more competition for places within Mourinho’s squad.
Read More: Manchester United Set To Offer £62m For This Real Madrid Defensive Ace: Enough To Lure Him In?
The 25-year-old playmaker had featured in 37 matches for Shakhtar last season, scoring 4 goals while creating 7 assists in all competitions. At 25, the Brazilian maestro has his peak years ahead of him which the Manchester outfit could look to capitalize on, in the coming years. It remains to be seen what lies ahead in the future of Fred and whether United are successful in bringing him to Old Trafford this summer.
