Manchester United considering possible Fred transfer to Fulham amid midfield interest

Fred started in Man United’s final game of the season at Old Trafford but is approaching the last year of his contract.

Manchester United midfielder Fred has emerged as a target for Fulham.

The Manchester Evening News understands intermediaries have proposed a possible move for Fred, 30, to Fulham as United want to recruit a younger midfielder.

Fulham manager Marco Silva was filmed speaking with Fred outside Old Trafford before the Londoners departed the stadium.

Fred is approaching the final year of his contract, which was extended by a year in the winter.

Although Newcastle have shown interest in Scott McTominay, United have not provisionally planned for his sale as he is their youngest senior midfielder.

Fulham have signed a number of Portuguese speakers since they were promoted back to the top flight last year and bought Brazilian Andreas Pereira from United in July.

Fred started in the home wins against Manchester City and Barcelona, as well as in the League Cup final victory over Newcastle, and he could retain his place for the FA Cup final as United manager Erik ten Hag considers a tactical tweak against City.

Despite that prominence, Fred only lined up in two league games after his starting role in the 7-0 annihilation by Liverpool at Anfield on March 5.

The Brazil international has started 22 games this term – the fewest since his maiden season with United in 2018-19.

United are under pressure to raise funds to reinvest in incomings to fall in line with the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules.

Harry Maguire, Anthony Martial, Eric Bailly, Alex Telles and Brandon Williams are among those likely to be made available for transfer.