Jose Mourinho’s men were left red-faced at Wembley as the Portuguese tactician failed to lift any trophy in the recently concluded season. That might alter his plans for the summer transfer window as he will surely be ready to spend big yet again.
This has seen them linked with some exciting stars recently and one names they are close to landing is midfielder Fred.
Fred Meets His Advisor Ahead Of United Move
A transfer target for the likes of Manchester City and PSG, the Brazilian ace, who is a part of the squad that is travelling to Russia next month, was close to moving to Etihad in January. But Pep decided against it and reports now claim that Jose Mourinho is ready to seal his transfer before the start of the next season.
With a release clause of €60m (£52.89m), he is a bit expensive but it is understood that Manchester United are convinced he is the right man and will strike a deal for him soon. Is he the right man for the Red Devils?
Fred And His Style Of Play
Having started his senior career with Inter Milan, the 25-year old spend just two seasons in Italy before he was snapped up by Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013. He took no time to establish himself in the first team, making 20+ league appearances in three of the five seasons he has spent at the club, including the last one.
Playing in a defensive midfield role, he registered four goals and seven assists in 37 games in all competitions and has been crucial to the club’s title win this season.
Known for his ability of hold up play and defensive awareness, the 25-year old is quick to turn defence into attack and is a busy player, always looking to keep his team on the front foot. He was used as a part of a two-man midfield in a 4-2-3-1 system, where he and Stepanenko gave extra stability to the midfield.
He loves to venture forward and is usually safe, thanks to his technique and temperament but what would have attracted Mourinho is his ability to make an impact on the biggest games of the season. He hardly ever shies away from responsibility and is just the kind of a player Mourinho loves to have in his side.
Where Does He Fit In?
Playing a similar role to Ander Herrera, Fred is expected to replace the Spaniard in the squad at Old Trafford, as Herrera is set to quit the club this summer. He can play alongside Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba in a three-man midfield in a 4-3-3 system, adding extra balance to the side.
He can also replace Matic in the first team when needed and can play alongside Pogba, giving the United side a new look. With Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick unlikely to be available next season, spending on Fred is now a necessity for United. But do you think he is the right man for the job?