Fred says Manchester United have ‘very strong bid’ for him

Fred, who is currently with the Brazil squad ahead of this summer’s World Cup, also revealed United’s interest follows an approach made by their rivals Manchester City in January.

Speaking at a press conference covered by Globo Esporte, Fred said: “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.”

However, the 25-year-old insists his focus is on the World Cup, saying he will leave negotiations to his representatives, one of whom is former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva.He said: “As far as negotiations go, I am only [focused] on the World Cup. You just think about that, forget about other things. My agents are taking care of it.”On the interest from the Manchester clubs, he said: “It is an honour to have the attention of the great coaches of Europe.”City were believed to be keen on signing Fred in January as a long-term replacement for Fernandinho, but have now turned their attention to Napoli midfielder Jorginho.