Jose Mourinho has identified midfielder Fred as a priority signing, according to the Daily Star, but transfer rivals Manchester City have cooled their interest.
The Red Devils now reportedly lead the race for the £40million-rated Brazilian.
Fred's representatives are aware of United’s eagerness to lure their client to Old Trafford.
Premier League rivals Arsenal and Tottenham also fancy Fred while Paris Saint-Germain are in the hunt.
The 25-year-old has been playing in Ukraine for Shakhtar Donetsk since 2013.
He has won six caps for Brazil since making his international debut in 2015.
Man Utd news: Jose Mourinho explains the decision to blast his players
“We are Manchester United, we have to improve every year and I know that a lot of players, a lot of good players, will come in next summer,” he said.
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Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is eager to sign Fred
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“That’s for sure. That is something I look forward to.
“In order to improve the squad, and what the manager also looks forward to because next year we have to win.
“We will have to try and win as many trophies as we can.”