Roland Cutinho
The Lazio manager turned down the chance to sign Fred despite United’s willingness to sell him
Lazio president Claudio Lotito has revealed that he was interested in signing Manchester United midfielder Fred and Tottenham Hotspur’s Giovani Lo Celso. However, manager Maurizio Sarri turned down the chance to make a move.
There have been strong rumours of the Brazilian midfielder potentially leaving Old Trafford this summer, with Fulham and Galatasaray expressing interest in acquiring him.
As for Giovani Lo Celso, he has been involved in Tottenham Hotspur’s pre-season matches but spent the previous season on loan at Villarreal.
Lazio president Lotito disclosed that he presented the opportunity to sign both Fred and Giovani Lo Celso to Sarri for the upcoming season. However, the manager declined the offer.
While talking to Il Messaggero (via Fabrizio Romano), the Italian club’s president said:
“I was prepared to open talks with Man United and bid for Fred, but Maurizio Sarri told me no – he doesn’t want Fred. He did the same with Lo Celso. Sarri wants Zielinski and Ricci.”
Following Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s departure to Al-Hilal in the current summer transfer window, Lazio now faces a significant void to fill in their midfield.
However, manager Sarri has been particular about the players he wants to bring in as replacements.
Meanwhile, United midfielder Fred has only one year remaining on his contract, and the club is looking to sell him this summer to raise funds.
Fred joined United from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018 and has since made 213 appearances for the club. He has been a valuable asset, particularly in important matches, with his energy being his key strength.
However, fellow international teammate Casemiro was favoured ahead of him last season. Fred has recently said that he is happy at Old Trafford. But he also admitted that he wants to feel important and play more.
With a number of United players ready to face the axe this summer, the 30-year-old may also join the long list since the club is already looking to sign Moroccan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.
Erik ten Hag would not say no to an attractive offer for the player. There has been interest, but it ultimately depends on the offer being made for the South American star.
Fred has been a loyal servant of the Red Devils. But it’s time for him to test his skills in a new league and help Ten Hag upgrade his midfield slots.
More Manchester United News
- PSG superstar Kylian Mabppe rejects Al Hilal offer amidst Manchester United interest
- Bayern Munich not interested in former Manchester United star David de Gea
- Galatasaray ‘remain keen’ on Manchester United midfielder Fred
The next few weeks will determine the player’s future. Whether it’s another season at Old Trafford or a new club, only time will tell.
