Manchester United lead the race for Shakhtar's Fred

Bengaluru, March 19: Manchester United have moved ahead of rivals Manchester City in the race to sign Shaktar Donetsk midfielder Fred, according to reports in England.

The Brazilian star is being watched by a host of the biggest clubs in Europe after impressive displays in the Ukrainian league and he also did quite well in the Champions League.

Reports in England claim that the Red Devils have suddenly emerged as the leading candidates to secure the Brazilian's services ahead of rivals Manchester City.

The Cityzens have been tracking the 25-year-old for most of the season as Pep Guardiola looks to provide help and cover for Fernandinho in the crucial holding midfielder role.

But it appears United's need to bolster their own options in that position has seen them move ahead of the pack who are looking to negotiate a summer deal for the Brazilian's services.

Shaktar are likely to demand £40million before they agree to sanction any move, and that is well within the budget Jose Mourinho is likely to be handed to improve the squad at the end of the season.

It has become clear over the past few months that United have a shortage of quality in the holding role, with Nemanja Matic the only natural in that position.

Scott McTominay has stepped in over recent weeks to provide a useful alternative option, but Mourinho is looking for more established options and Fred certainly ticks that box.

Manchester United have reportedly made discreet enquiries to find out whether Fred would be open to the prospect of moving to Old Trafford, and received encouraging feedback from Ukraine.

And that is understood to have given them the confidence to press ahead with a serious attempt to clinch a deal with Shaktar this summer.