Manchester City have pulled the plug on their pursuit of Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred to leave Manchester United with a free run at his signature, claims the Manchester Evening News.
Jose Mourinho has made overhauling his current midfield options his main priority this summer and earmarked Fred as a transfer target at the start of the current campaign.
City were poised to land the Brazilian midfielder in January but failed to get a deal over the line after Shakhtar increased their asking price for the 25-year-old at the last minute.
United checked in with Fred’s representatives after the January transfer window and now have a free run at signing him following news City are now pursuing Napoli ace Jorginho.
It was revealed earlier this year that Fred would join one of the Manchester clubs at the end of the season and it now appears the Shakhtar No.8 will secure a move to Old Trafford.
Of players that have attempted at least 15 dribbles in the Champions League this season, only Andres Iniesta (18) has a best success rate than Fred (88.5%).
