Manchester United has officially announced that they have come to terms with Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce regarding the transfer of seasoned midfielder Fred. The fate of the Brazilian international has been a focal point of widespread conjecture in recent weeks, and it has become evident at the outset of the transfer window that he would be bidding adieu to Old Trafford this summer.
Fred’s absence was conspicuous as he refrained from accompanying the Red Devils squad on their pre-season sojourn to the United States. Furthermore, he remained absent from the lineup during the friendly matches against Lens and Athletic Bilbao last weekend.
At a certain juncture, Galatasaray seemed to hold a position of strength in their pursuit of the South American player. However, the spotlight has now shifted onto Fenerbahce, who have recently emerged as frontrunners to secure his signature.
On the evening of Friday, Manchester United unveiled that they had struck an accord with Fenerbahce for a transfer deal. The finalization of the move is contingent upon reaching personal terms and the player successfully undergoing a medical examination.
“Manchester United can confirm an agreement in principle has been reached with Fenerbahce for the transfer of Fred,” read a statement on the English club’s official website.
“The Brazil international is set for a switch to the Turkish Super Lig, subject to a medical, agreeing personal terms and receiving international clearance to process the move. Our no.17 is scheduled to fly out to Istanbul on Saturday, in order to take his medical tests.
“The 30-year-old leaves so many positive memories from his time at Old Trafford, where he has been a hugely popular individual, both as a person and as a player.
“Everybody at the club would like to wish the very best of luck to Fred for the future, as we await confirmation that the deal is completed.”
Having donned the Manchester United jersey, Fred’s tally stands at 213 appearances across various competitions since his arrival from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018. He has contributed 14 goals and 19 assists during this period.
The midfielder played a substantial role under Erik ten Hag’s leadership throughout the 2022-23 season, participating in 56 matches across all competitions. Nevertheless, he encountered challenges in securing regular starting positions.
It is anticipated that Fred will not be the sole departure, as midfielder Donny van de Beek is strongly linked with a move to Real Sociedad, while the rumours surrounding Scott McTominay’s potential transfer to West Ham United persist.
