Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is convinced Fred can help bring the best out of Paul Pogba.
His dynamic style and defensive attributes can compared to Manchester City star Fernandinho, who has been one of most consistent midfielders in the Premier League for some time.
The Manchester Evening News says Old Trafford chiefs are convinced that the transfer will have solved Jose Mourinho's midfield muddle.
Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba have been the preferred centre partnership but the Frenchman works better in a three-man midfield.
The purchase of Fred will allow Pogba to operate in more offensive positions rather than cope with the many defensive responsibilities Mourinho typically places on a player.