5 top midfielders being eyed by Europe's top clubs

#2 Fred (Shakhtar Donetsk)

Mourinho has been keen on adding Brazilian players to his setup

Age: 25

Height: 1.69m

Nationality: Brazil

Shakhtar Donetsk’s prized asset, the 25-year-old is one of the hottest properties expected to make the next big move in the summer. Having been brought in from Brazil by the Ukranian club, the midfielder has risen to prominence in the five seasons he has spent in Europe.

The central midfielder cemented his place in Shakhtar’s XI a while ago which aided his inclusion into the national side as he replaced Luiz Gustavo in the Canarinho team and will be on the plane to Russia as well.

Blessed with both offensive and defensive abilities, he is an exceptional dribbler who can move past players like they are practice cones and his well-timed runs are a reason as to why he is difficult to pick up on the pitch.

His passing and ability to create chances are exceptional and he tracks back a lot and puts in an effort to help the defence win the ball back. A high work rate, exceptional passing, set-piece ability and intelligent decision-making all combine to make Fred, one of the most complete midfielders in European football.

After Jose Mourinho's comments on Brazilian players in a team, the chances of the Red Devils acquiring the player's signature looks good. The Brazilian's creativity could be key for Mourinho as United have looked bland when they don't have Paul Pogba on the pitch as the playmaker.

United's crossroad rivals, Manchester City have also been linked with Fred with Guardiola wanting another defensive midfield option alongside Fernandinho.

It seems that he is bound for Machester this summer as suggested by his Shakhtar teammate, Darijo Srna and may move when one of the clubs decide to pay the £53million asking price.