‘Agreement’ - Man Utd set for transfer of £52m signing ahead of Premier League opener

Manchester United have announced they have reached an agreement in principle with Fenerbahce for the sale of Brazilian midfielder Fred.

The player’s transfer to Turkey is subject to a medical, agreeing personal terms and international clearance with the midfielder flying for his medical on Saturday.

A United statement confirmed: “Manchester United can confirm an agreement in principle has been reached with Fenerbahce for the transfer of Fred.

“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.”

Fred joined United from Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk for a reported £52m in the summer of 2018 and has since made 213 appearances for the club.

He netted 14 goals during his time at Old Trafford and last played during a friendly win over Lyon in Edinburgh early in pre-season. BBC Sport report a deal worth €15m has been agreed, with €10m up front with the other €5m in potential add-ons.

The midfielder made 56 appearances under Erik ten Hag last season scoring six goals as United won the Carabao Cup with victory over Newcastle United at Wembley and also finished third to secure a place in this season’s Champions League. He had been targeted by other clubs in Turkey this summer as well as United’s Premier League rivals Fulham.

Despite playing in 56 games last term, Fred starting just 12 times in the league for United and previously expressed frustration over his limited role.

“In terms of my own performance, I believe I’ve played well, although I wish I’d had more minutes on the pitch,” said Fred in May. “Whenever I was on the field, I think I delivered what was expected from me to help the team succeed.”