Fred’s arrival could spell the end for Ander Herrera at Manchester United.
Brazilian midfielder Fred moved to United earlier this week for a fee of £52 million after passing a medical at Carrington.
The plan is most likely to start the 25-year-old in the heart of midfield, alongside Nemanja Matic, which would free Paul Pogba up to attack more freely.
As for Herrera, however, the acquisition of Fred almost certainly sees him drop down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
Herrera might have featured 26 times in the Premier League last season but whether he will be happy to keep fighting for a starting place remains to be seen and he is set to be given the opportunity to return to former club Athletic Bilbao.
Spanish outlet AS report that Bilbao are prepared to offer Herrera a deal which would see him become the highest paid player at the San Mamés Stadium.
Herrera is reportedly on €75,000 per week at United but Bilbao are keen to get their former player back and build their midfield around him. Having missed out on the Spainish World Cup squad, getting back closer to home could help revive Herrera’s international career.
Herrera represented the La Liga side for three seasons before United agreed to match his release clause and while the Spaniard remains a fan favourite at United, he must be aware of the fact that he is not going to start the majority of games for Jose Mourinho.
Manchester Evening News report that United would be willing to listen to offers for the 28-year-old although Mourinho is keen to have a replacement in place before he gives the green light to any approaches.
