Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is stepping up their pursuit of Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fred.

The Mirror says Mourinho wants Brazilian star Fred as a midfield replacement for Paul Pogba.

United are rivalling neighbours and new champions Man City in the £50million battle to sign the Shakhtar Donetsk anchorman. And Mourinho's determination to sign him is further indication that Pogba could be on his way out of Old Trafford this summer.

The United boss is running out of patience with Pogba, substituted him again in Sudnay;s shock home defeat by West Brom and hinting he could be dropped for the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham on Saturday.

Mourinho wants a more tactically disciplined midfielder and a player he can rely on — which is the biggest problem with Pogba, whose inconsistent displays go from brilliant to invisible.