Former Shakhtar Donetsk manager Mircea Lucescu believes Brazilian midfielder Fred will turn down Manchester United for Manchester City in the summer.
Speaking to il Romanista, Lucescu says he “expects” City to land the 24-year-old, despite competition from Manchester United. It was the ex-manager who signed Fred from Internacional in 2013, and he’s since made more than 140 appearances for the Ukrainian side.
After being asked about an impending €60m deal for Fred to make the switch to the Etihad Stadium, Lucescu said: “City pay much more than what the players are worth. Honestly yes, I expected this success. He has incredible qualities. Athletically, (he’s) of the highest level and is very attentive to all aspects of the game. It is his natural quality.”
Manchester Evening News say Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is lining up a lucrative bid for the £50million rated midfielder, as a long-term replacement for Fernandinho – another Brazilian midfielder who played for Shakhtar Donetsk. United remain in the running, as Jose Mourinho is in the market for a new midfielder.
Michael Carrick is retiring at the end of the season and Marouane Fellaini could join him out the exit door, with talks stalling over a new contract. Ander Herrera has been out of favour this campaign and no longer holds down a starting place too.
City are blowing the Red Devils out of the water financially, however, which means Fred could be going to the blue side of Manchester. He’s been a regular in the Ukrainian Super League this season, making 16 appearances, while also playing every game in the Champions League.
His future looks destined for England but not at Old Trafford.
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