MANCHESTER UNITED have received a boost in their bid to sign Flamengo midfielder Lucas Paqueta in January.
The Brazil international, 21, was also a target for Barcelona but the Spanish giants have ruled themselves out of the race.
Paqueta is rated at around £45million but United could still face serious competition from AC Milan.
He has also been watched by Liverpool, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.
The attacking midfielder is rumoured to be the next big Brazilian star.
Besides his technical quality, Paqueta has also been renowned for his ability to press with intensity.
The Flamengo star has impressed this season having scored six goals in 21 matches.
His style is thought to be similar to Liverpool's Roberto Firmino.
Barcelona's signings of Arthur and Arturo Vidal have given them enough cover in midfield.
This has convinced Director of Football Eric Abidal to opt against signing Paqueta.
The 21-year-old made his debut for Brazil in the 2-0 victory over USA.
He also helped Flamengo reach the Copa Sudamericana final last season.
The player has a release cause of around £45m on his current contract.
His deal has two years remaining however the club are keen to keep Paqueta for as long as they can.
United may use Fred to help convince the player to join the club.
The Brazilian midfielder settled in Europe with Shakhtar Donetsk before moving to Old Trafford.