Brazil midfielder Fred has revealed he is aware of strong interest from Manchester United.

The Premier League side have been linked with a £44million move for the Shakhtar Donetsk player.

The 25-year-old says the interest has come after United’s rivals Manchester City also made enquiries earlier this year.

Fred is currently with his national team squad in Brazil preparing for this summer’s World Cup in Russia.

Speaking at a press conference covered by Globo Esporte, Fred said: “The talks had been in progress since January with City. Soon after, City and United talked to Shakhtar and my agents.

“And now, if I’m not mistaken, there was news of a very strong bid from United.”

Fred, however, says his immediate focus is on the World Cup and the matter will be dealt with by his representatives, who include former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva.

He said: “As far as negotiations go, I am only (focused) on the World Cup. You just think about that, forget about other things. My agents are taking care of it.”

On the interest from the Manchester clubs, he said: “It is an honour to have the attention of the great coaches of Europe.”