Fred confirms 'very strong United bid'

Fred has shone with the Ukranian side this season, earning himself a place in the Brazil national squad for the World Cup. 

With Jose Mourinho keen to bolster his team in order to compete with city rivals Manchester City, the Portuguese has set his sights on the 25-year-old.

At a press conference, Fred made it clear he knew what is going on behind the scenes: "The talks had been in progress since January with City. Soon after, City and United talked to Shakhtar and my agents."

"And now, if I'm not mistaken, there was news of a very strong bid from United," Fred said. "It is an honour to have the attention of the great coaches of Europe," he added, referring to the interest from the Manchester heavyweights.