Fulham are showing interest in signing Manchester United midfielder Fred this summer.
The Manchester Evening News have revealed that intermediaries have proposed a possible move for Fred, who is approaching the final year of his contract at United.
The two sides met yesterday in the final Premier League game of the season, with the Red Devils beating the Cottagers 2-1.
After the match, Fulham boss Marco Silva was spotted speaking with the Brazil international in the car park.
Man United should do a straight swap between Fred and Palhinha
The Red Devils triggered a one-year extension in Fred’s contract last year. This allows the Brazilian to leave Old Trafford as a free agent in June 2024.
United must get smart with their transfer business. They should cash in on fringe players and use those funds to improve their squad.
Fred is best known for bringing energy to the pitch by covering every blade of grass. However, his ability with the ball is very limited.
Erik ten Hag has utilised Fred in games he expects United to do plenty of off-the-ball work.
He started in the home wins against Manchester City and Barcelona – two teams who dominate ball possession.
United should use Fulham’s interest and propose a straight swap between Fred and Joao Palhinha.
The Portugal international is a powerful defensive midfielder and would be a fantastic acquisition for Man United.
Palhinha has recorded the most tackles made by any player (147) in the Premier League this season. Moises Caicedo stands next to him with 100 tackles.
He moved to Fulham last summer for an initial fee of around £17 million, but a spectacular debut season in England has more than doubled his value to £40m.
The transfer deal will be beneficial for United even if they have to pay £10-20m on top of Fred.
