Shakhtar Donetsk chief executive Sergei Palkin has revealed how Manchester United ensured they beat rivals City to the signing of Fred.

The midfielder joined the Red Devils last week in a £52m deal, fending off fierce competition from City who tried to sign the Brazilian in January.

Fred looks to be a great coup by United, but speaking on Shakhtar’s official website, Parkin admitted that the singing didn’t happen overnight and revealed Jose Mourinho scouted the 25-year-old for over two months.

“We conducted the negotiations with the representatives of Man Utd for over two months.

“Since April, their scout had been constantly present at all our home games in Kharkiv. Jose Mourinho wanted to see Fred at Manchester United.

“The negotiations were interesting, and, as I said earlier, we are fully satisfied with the agreement terms.”

The chief didn’t stop short of complementing his former employee either, saying he deserves a move to the Premier League and will certainly improve his level of ability over time.

“Fred has been at Shakhtar since 2013, he has grown seriously as a football player, deserving to continue his performance in a stronger league.

“I’m sure he will progress and improve his level. I wish him every success in the Premier League.

“It’s nice that our former players – Willian, Fernandinho, Mkhitaryan, and Fred – have been playing in England for the top clubs competing for the top spot.”