Fulham are back in the race to sign the Manchester United midfielder Fred, according to Sky Sports News.

Marco Silva was caught on camera chatting to the Brazilian international before the Whites left Old Trafford after he had played a key role in their defeat on the final day of last season and the 30 year-old had been tipped to make a move to London after being put up for sale by the Red Devils, but the Cottagers baulked at United’s £20m asking price.

Fred had been heavily linked with a move to Galatasaray but a proposed deal fell through earlier this summer after the Turkish giants fell well short of matching Manchester United’s valuation. Reports in recent days suggest that the Old Trafford outfit have dropped their asking price to £15m as they seek further funds to devote to Erik ten Hag’s squad rebuild in the final weeks of the transfer window – and the Whites are closely monitoring developments.

Silva is seeking midfield reinforcements ahead of Fulham’s second season in the top flight and the Londoners view Fred as an experienced alternative to long-term target Andre, with Fluminese still keen on keeping hold of their 22 year-old enforcer until January at the earliest. For his part, Fred is attracted to remaining in the Premier League and Fulham are confident of seeing off competition from continental challengers as well as suitors from Saudi Arabia to secure the defensive midfielder’s signature.