Fred is Red: Manchester United sign Shakhtar’s star midfielder
Manchester United have got their man. According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Red Devils have captured Shakhtar Donetsk’s star midfielder. Fred is Red, and Chief Executive Ed Woodward has kickstarted the Old Trafford outfit’s summer transfer window with a bang.
Fred i know it’s done as i said. Dalot no medicals yet, still waiting agreement between clubs
— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) June 2, 2018
Fred, 25, has been linked with a move to the Premier League for a few months. In the January window there were even reports of him heading to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. The Brazilian star has finished his fifth season with Shakhtar Donetsk, ending his spell in Ukraine with 14 goals from 156 games. Ten of those goals coming in league play.
Where will he play?
Jose Mourinho will look to play Fred in the right central midfield slot. Part of his 4-3-3 formation. This will consist of Paul Pogba on his left, and Nemanja Matic sitting behind. The Brazilian central midfielder will be a significant upgrade from Andre Herrera. Fred will retain Herrera’s defensive intensity, but will bring more composure on the ball. His passing and dribbling ability also surpass the Spaniard’s.
This improved passing ability will help United’s build-up play immeasurably. His dribbling will also provide a new dimension to the club’s counter attacking play.
Fred will take much of the responsibility of advancing the ball up the field away from Paul Pogba. This will leave the Frenchman free to showcase the best of his creative abilities in the final third of the pitch. It could be said this has been an area lacking from United’s recent games.
Likewise, Fred’s defensive contribution will ease the burden on Nemanja Matic’s shoulders. At 31, the Serbian isn’t getting any younger. Fred’s presence in midfield will ease the pressure on Matic, providing back-up where needed. Though Fred has the talent, he still can only learn from the highly experienced Matic.
