Manchester United new signing Fred has revealed that a former Arsenal player helped him secure a move to Old Trafford by speaking directly to Jose Mourinho.
Fred joined the Red Devils from Ukranian outfit Shakhtar Donetsk for around 53 million euros before the World Cup started.
He has played in both of Man United’s opening Premier League fixtures – the 2-1 win over Leicester on Matchday 1 and the defeat to Brighton last Friday.
According to the Mirror, the 25-year-old’s decision to join Jose Mourinho was partly influenced by his agent, former Arsenal midfielder and legend Gilberto Silva.
Speaking to Man United’s media team, Fred praised Gilberto’s qualities and expressed his respect form the former Gunner.
“He was a top midfielder who played for Arsenal. He has a lot of respect for Manchester United, who are obviously a big club here in England,” said Fred as seen on Mirror.
He went on to describe how Gilberto helped secure his big money move to England:
“After he was granted the opportunity to speak to Jose Mourinho and other senior figures at United, we made the decision together for me to come here. We decided it would be a good move for me,” Fred explained.
He concluded by revealing how the former Arsenal man helps him with his career, saying the fact that he played in the same position back then inspires him [Fred] to do even better.
“He played in the same position as I do and he won the Premier League, so I look to him for inspiration, I listen to what he has to say and I take on board what he tells me,” Fred said.