South American football expert Tim Vickery has said he is surprised by reports that Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred is to join Manchester United.
The Brazilian has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford in recent weeks, with a deal potentially being concluded in the coming days. Fred is currently training with the Brazil national team ahead of this summer’s World Cup, but will jet into England to play a friendly at Anfield later this week.
Fred was initially linked with a move to Manchester City, with Shakhtar Donetsk revealing they rejected a €50 million bid from the Citizens back in January.
Speaking to Sky Sports news, Vickery discussed the midfielders qualities, but admitted he is surprised that EPL Champions Man City have dropped their interest in the Samba star:
“I enjoyed watching him on the way up at Internacional,” said Vickery.
“He’s a busy little left-footed midfielder. Very dynamic, and he’s got some quality. He’s developing as well.
“I could understand City’s interest. When they played Shakhtar in the Champions League, Pep Guardiola was very impressed with him.
“You could see Fred fitting into a dynamic Man City midfield. He’s almost like a smaller left-footed version of Fernandinho.
“To my surprise, it seems City have dropped aside and United have come in there.
“I know that Fred is very excited about the prospect of playing for a top club in the Premier League.”