There is certainly a leading front-runner in the race to become the first Manchester United signing of the summer. Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred has confirmed the United transfer narrative that has been prevalent in the news this week, revealing that the club has a very strong interest in him.
Fred also stated that his agent has already held advanced talks with the club. Just last month, United manager Jose Mourinho did tell a Brazilian media outlet that his club should have at least one Brazil international on the roster, and perhaps Fred will indeed be that player.
Fred also revealed, at a news conference in Rio de Janeiro, a transfer move that nearly happened in the last window.
“There have been some advanced talks since January, when I almost went to Man City. Soon after City, United talked to Shakhtar and my agents. And today, if I’m not mistaken, there is very strong interest from United,” said Fred.
“My head is in the World Cup. My agents are taking care of it. I try to do my work in the field and leave the extra field for Gilberto Silva. My staff are looking at what is best for me. Who knows after the World Cup I can make the best choice for me.”
Regarding the World Cup, Fred and his Brazil teammates will take on Croatia in an international friendly at Anfield next week, as a tune up for the big event. It’s very convenient, as the Liverpool home ground is only 30 miles away from United’s Carrington training ground complex, or the site where he would undergo a medical to finalize his transfer.
We’ll see if this deal wraps up in time to make that happen.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, which is partnered with News Now. Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, currently contributes regularly to WGN CLTV and the Tribune company’s blogging community Chicago Now.
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