Manchester United confirm agreement with Fenerbahce for Fred

Manchester United have confirmed that they have reached an agreement with Turkish giants Fenerbahce for the transfer of experienced midfielder Fred.

The Brazil international's future has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks, with it becoming clear early in the transfer window that he would be leaving Old Trafford this summer.

Fred did not travel with the Red Devils squad on their pre-season tour of the United States, while he also did not feature in the friendlies with Lens and Athletic Bilbao last weekend.

Galatasaray, at one stage, were thought to be in a strong position to sign the South American, but Fenerbahce have recently emerged as the favourites for his signature.

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On Friday evening, Man United revealed that an agreement with Fenerbahce had been reached over a sale, with the move set to be completed subject to agreeing personal terms and the player completing a medical.

"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.

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"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."

Fred will leave Man United having represented the club on 213 occasions in all competitions following a move from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018, scoring 14 goals and registering 19 assists in the process.

The midfielder was heavily involved for Erik ten Hag's side during the 2022-23 campaign, making 56 appearances in all competitions, but he found it difficult to secure regular starts.

Fred is expected to be followed out the door by fellow midfielder Donny van de Beek, who is being heavily linked with Real Sociedad, while Scott McTominay continues to be linked with a switch to West Ham United.