Report: Everton Open Talks to Sign Former Manchester United Midfielder Fred as Fenerbahce Welcome Offers
Everton have taken initial steps toward securing the services of Brazilian midfielder Fred, with the Premier League side expressing interest in a potential summer transfer. According to reports from Turkish outlet Sabah, relayed by SportWitness, the Toffees have identified the Fenerbahce star as a key target to bolster their midfield options ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Fred, who previously played for Manchester United, has emerged as a top candidate to replace Abdoulaye Doucouré, whose contract with Everton recently expired. The Merseyside club is eager to inject fresh energy into their midfield and views Fred’s experience and dynamism as an ideal fit. However, early negotiations suggest a gap in valuation between the two clubs.
Everton Make Their Move but Stall on Fee
Sources claim that Everton have made contact with Fred’s representatives over the past few weeks to explore the possibility of a deal. However, they are yet to agree to Fenerbahce’s current asking price. The Turkish giants are reportedly seeking around €15 million (roughly £12.8 million) for the 32-year-old midfielder, who is under contract until June 2027.
While Everton are not currently prepared to meet this valuation, Fenerbahce are understood to be open to letting Fred leave, provided their financial demands are met. With several changes expected under new head coach José Mourinho, the Turkish club may be willing to negotiate, especially if they can secure a suitable replacement.
Mourinho Eyes Midfield Reinforcements
Adding further intrigue to the situation, recent reports suggest that Mourinho is already lining up potential replacements for Fred. The Portuguese manager is believed to be targeting Tottenham Hotspur’s Yves Bissouma as a preferred option to take Fred’s place in the squad.
Fred has been a regular fixture in Fenerbahce’s lineup since his arrival from Manchester United in the summer of 2023. During the 2024/25 season, he featured in 45 matches across all competitions, showcasing his enduring fitness and consistency despite being in the latter stages of his career.
A Look Back at Fred’s Premier League Career
Fred spent five years at Old Trafford after arriving from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2018. Though his time with Manchester United saw ups and downs, he eventually became a reliable figure in the club’s midfield. The Brazilian made a total of 213 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 14 goals and supplying 19 assists. He also lifted the Carabao Cup (League Cup) during the 2022/23 campaign under Erik ten Hag.
Currently earning around £113,000 per week at Fenerbahce, Fred would represent a significant investment for Everton. However, his familiarity with the pace and physicality of the Premier League could make him a valuable addition for manager Sean Dyche as he looks to rebuild and stabilize the team following a turbulent few seasons.
Everton Also Close to Signing Fulham Defender
Alongside their pursuit of Fred, Everton are on the verge of completing their first signing of the summer transfer window. Negotiations with Fulham right-back Kenny Tete are said to be in the final stages, with the Dutch defender expected to arrive on a free transfer.
Tete is being lined up to replace two long-serving full-backs—Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman—both of whom are expected to leave the club once their contracts officially expire next week. The signing of Tete would mark the beginning of a broader squad overhaul at Goodison Park, as Everton seek to inject youth, energy, and resilience into a squad that narrowly avoided relegation in recent campaigns.
What’s Next for Everton?
With Fred on their radar and other moves underway, Everton appear to be making proactive steps in the summer transfer window. However, striking a balance between quality and affordability will be crucial if they are to meet Premier League Financial Fair Play (FFP) requirements. Whether the Toffees can reach a compromise with Fenerbahce over Fred’s transfer fee remains to be seen, but their interest signals clear intent to strengthen key areas ahead of the new season.