Manchester United transfer news: Jose Mourinho offers club legend Fred the Red a new deal

MANCHESTER UNITED boss Jose Mourinho has made his latest move in the transfer market – by offering Fred The Red a new contract.

The mascot had feared his job was in jeopardy after The Special One took over at Old Trafford in May.

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But Mourinho, 53, has assured Fred – who is played by club worker Steve Smith – that he is an important part of his plans.

A source said: “Steve was concerned Jose might have different plans for what he wants the club to do before games.

“But Jose met him during a meet and greet of workers and told him he was great and he liked what he did to help get the fans in the mood for the game.

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Manchester United

“Steve had been worried about his future, but Jose has put his fears at rest.

“He told Steve he liked what he did and the way he interacted with the fans and he wanted him to carry on as usual.”

The pair also met at the Soccer Aid game held at Old Trafford last month.

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Getty Images

Fred The Red has been United’s official mascot since 1994 and represents the club’s nickname The Red Devils.

He wears the number 55 shirt and entertains the crowds at Old Trafford before matches.

Fred the Red was voted the most popular mascot in Match magazine in 2011.

Since taking over at United, Mourinho has spent more than £55million by splashing out on defender Eric Bailly, midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan and striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.