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Man Utd news: Fred reveals how Arsenal legend helped him choose Old Trafford over Man City
MANCHESTER UNITED midfielder Fred has revealed how Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva helped convince him of a move to Old Trafford.
Fred trains with Manchester United for the first time
Fred was one of three new signings through the door at Manchester United this summer, joining from Shakhtar Donetsk in a £52m transfer.
The Brazilian was strongly linked with a move to rivals Manchester City while the likes of Paris Saint-Germain were also showing interest over a big-money move.
However, Fred claims a chat with his agent, Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva, helped him decide to pick Old Trafford over the Etihad.
Silva, who made 170 league appearances for the Gunners, knows all too well about the Premier League having been part of Arsenal’s title-winning side in 2004.
"There were options in England and in Europe," Fred said.
"Manchester City, PSG, but I chose United. I spoke to my agent Gilberto Silva, who played for Arsenal.
“He told me that United was a huge club. I spoke to my family and friends.
"When I said United, I saw their faces. I'm sure that I made the right choice.
“I want to play in and win the Premier League, the best league in the world.
“I had a proposal from China too, but I didn't want to go there because I wanted to join United."
Fred impressed on his United debut against Leicester on Friday night as the Red Devils secured a 2-1 win.
Mourinho has high hopes for the the 25-year-old and wants him to bring his creative flair to the side.
Fred trains with new Manchester United teammates
"Fred is a technical player," Mourinho said.
"Having people in the squad like (Nemanja) Matic, (Marouane) Fellaini, Pogba, even Ander (Herrera) - physical people, strong - we think a player like Fred, Andreas Pereira - more technical, more quality of passing, playing in short spaces - will maybe connect with the attacking players.
"We thought that he could be an important player for us - but let's wait."
Fred will look for the chance to impress once again when United take on Brighton on Sunday.