Manchester City hold talks with Fred as Shakhtar Donetsk ace closes in on £45m Etihad switch

MANCHESTER CITY have stepped up their pursuit to sign Shakhtar Donetsk ace Fred.

The Premier League leaders reportedly held talks over the Brazilian this week as a £45million move closes in.

The Citizens are determined to wrap up a deal for the midfielder before next Wednesday's transfer deadline, according to .

Ukrainian side Shakhtar are open to agreeing a deal, but they are holding out until they receive the right offer.

Fred is viewed as a long-term replacement for 32-year-old Fernandinho at the Etihad, while Yaya Toure is expected to leave at the end of the season.

The Brazilian has also attracted interest from Premier League rivals Manchester United.

But the 24-year-old is set to snub a move to Old Trafford to join the Premier League leaders.

After impressing against Man City in the Champions League group stages, the 24-year-old spoke of how he would welcome a move to the Etihad.

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He said: "I wait impatiently for his call to arrive now. I think I would grow a lot with him.

"England is the best league in the world and I've always dreamed of playing there."

Since joining Shakhtar in 2013, the Brazilian has helped his side claim two league titles, two domestic cups and three Super Cups.

He has also featured in the Champions League and Europa League, which led to a wide range of interest.