Manchester United new boy Fred has revealed that Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva played a huge role in his switch to Old Trafford this summer.

Fred completed his £52 million move to United from Shakhtar Donetsk back in June, and has since made his first two competitive appearances for the Red Devils in the Premier League games against Leicester City and Brighton.

United stole Fred from under the noses of rivals Manchester City, and the Brazilian midfielder has revealed it was an unlikely source that ensured he chose the red side of the city this summer.

“Gilberto was a top midfielder who played for Arsenal,” Fred told ManUtd.com, “But he has a lot of respect for Manchester United, who are obviously a big club here in England.

“He praised the club a lot and, after he was granted the opportunity to speak to Jose Mourinho and other senior figures at United, we made the decision together for me to come here. We decided it would be a good move for me.”

Gilberto joined Arsenal in 2002 from Athletic Mineiro, and quickly became a fan favourite at what was then Highbury for his tenacious displays in the centre of the Gunners’ midfield.

And Fred, who plays in a similar position as Gilberto, says his international compatriot has long been one of his biggest role models.

“Gilberto is a top guy and his advice means a lot to me,” he continued.

“He played in the same position as I do and he won the Premier League, so I look to him for inspiration, I listen to what he has to say and I take on board what he tells me.”