Pranav Nair
Manchester United looking to replace Fred ahead of next season
According to The Mirror, Manchester United could be set to replace Brazilian international midfielder Fred ahead of the 2021/22 campaign.
The 28-year-old formed a solid partnership with Scott McTominay in what was Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s preferred choice of players as a double pivot. While his intent and engine cannot be questioned, he does make the odd blunder and is rather limited going forward.
Having almost landed Jadon Sancho, United are now set to turn their attention to other areas of the pitch. One of them appears to be a defensive midfielder.
It has been suggested by The Express that Solskjaer is keen to adopt a tactical shift in midfield next season. With United set to revert to a one-man holding midfield, Fred could be the one to bite the bullet.
Currently with the Brazilian squad, Fred is enjoying an excellent summer after being recalled to the international fold. He has kept Fabinho out of the Selecao starting line-up as they look to win a second consecutive Copa America title.
While he has not been a standout performer, Fred has kept things today and shown he has what it takes to be a reliable midfielder for a top side. Brazil play Argentina in the showpiece final on Sunday.
One of the players being touted as a replacement is Rennes wonderkid Eduardo Camavinga. The 18-year-old could be set for a move this summer after he entered the final year of his contract. Signing him for around £25million would represent excellent value for a Red Devils side still in the rebuilding stage.
More Manchester United News
- Manchester United handed Cristiano Ronaldo boost as Juventus eye Dusan Vlahovic
- PSG make an offer for Manchester United target Eduardo Camavinga
- Manchester United will need to fork out £34m to sign Kieran Trippier this summer
Camavinga over Fred is an interesting choice and it remains to be seen if it will happen. The Brazilian to his credit has upped his game under Solskjaer. However, at times, what he can do does little to compensate for what he cannot. It might be time for us to try something new.
It was perhaps telling that Fred, who played a role in United reaching the Europa League final was dropped to the bench against Villarreal. Whether he has played his last game for the club remains to be seen.
