Pep Guardiola has certainly dominated the English top flight in his second year in the country. His Manchester City squad is right up there with the best in the league but the manager is not totally convinced by all the options available and is active in the transfer market, looking to add to his side.
He has already landed Athletic Bilbao star Aymeric Laporte and reports suggest that they are looking to sign another exciting player in Fred. Reports suggest that City are in advanced talks but even if any deal is finalised, the player is likely to join up in the summer. The fee doing the rounds is £40m and it is something the Sky Blues will not have any qualms about paying.
Who Is Fred?
Having made a name for himself in the Brazil Serie A before moving to Shakhtar back in 2013, Fred took no time to turn into one of the most exciting stars on show in the Russian top flight. He has already made 91 domestic league appearances, picking up nine goals and is the first choice midfielder at the Metalist Stadium.
A central midfielder, who can also put in a shift in an attacking role, the six-cap Brazil international is a well-groomed player, who hardly makes mistakes. He has decent technique and sticks to the basics but his Brazilian flair is often seen in tight situations, which he wriggles out of, with relative ease.
He may not be strong in the air but is quick to cut out passes in front of the backline, while his understanding of the game allows him to quickly release the ball for effective counter-attacks. His twists and turns often draw fouls in dangerous areas and his ability to hold up play make him an effective midfielder, against the best sides in Europe.
He can dribble past his opponents in the midfield but prefers to stay safe and his attributes will be a huge hit in England.
The Right Man For Manchester City?
However, even at 24, he is yet to establish himself at the highest stage and might not be the best option available in the transfer market for the Sky Blues. Guardiola has used Fernandinho in the first team this season as a CDM and if he wants to replace the Brazilian, he will have to search for a more established name, who will improve the quality of the whole squad.
But the Shakhtar man could be a decent long-term replacement for Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure, who might not be at the club at the start of the next season.
At 24, he is a decent player to have in the squad but do City really have to spend on him?