It is a summer that is expected to be like no other for Manchester United. Departures are expected and players who have been with the club for years are expected to be on their way out of Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag looks for that elusive Premier League title that United fans have been yearning for since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson.
It is no longer right to say United are in a state of transition, they are certainly past that now, but they still have to make the right adjustments to the squad if they are to challenge Manchester City.
Fred to leave Manchester United
One of the names that has reportedly been told he can leave Manchester United is the 30-year-old Brazilian. He has been a regular in the squad since Jose Mourinho signed him and in the absence of Paul Pogba, thrived under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in stints.
However, he has been used sporadically under ten Hag and it looks like his time is over after a 5-year stay. His energy and hustle have been something that ten Hag has appreciated but on the ball Fred can be, which might seem harsh, woeful, and wasteful in possession.
Who is interested?
Fred is likely to stay in the country and in the Premier League for that matter with Fulham the side showing the most interest currently.
It is yet to be seen if Fulham are likely to spend the £20 million on Fred imminently or if they are waiting for the series of events that follow in terms of transfers.
With Arsenal desperate to sign Declan Rice that would lead West Ham to sign a midfielder as a replacement and they have their heart set on Fulham’s João Palhinha but it will come at a cost. It is expected that Fulham will demand between £50- 90 million for the Portuguese man.
Would it work for Fred?
There is no doubt that what Fred does, he does well. However, in a Manchester United side he is ultimately not up to the standards required especially if he has to fill in on a regular basis with United competing on all fronts or if he has been brought on to see a game out.
However, at Fulham, the pressure will be off him and he may even be given license to push forward more like he does for Brazil. His tenacity will really help Fulham and putting players under pressure could see them push for a European place next season.