Report: Manchester City in advanced talks to sign Fred

Manchester City are reportedly closing in on the signing of Brazilian midfielder Fred after entering advanced talks with Shakhtar Donetsk.

Citizens boss Pep Guardiola has brought forward his plans to strengthen in central midfield due to a lack of cover in that area, not helped by the injury loss of the versatile Fabian Delph.

The Telegraph suggests that City will take their transfer spending for January close to nine figures by bringing in Fred before the window closes, having already recruited Aymeric Laporte from Athletic Bilbao in a club-record move.

City, also linked with England Under-21s ace Jack Harrison, are hoping to conclude talks with Shakhtar at some stage on Tuesday.

However, the same report indicates that Guardiola is willing to let Fred - valued at around £40m - remain at the Ukrainian club until the summer if it helps push a deal over the line.