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Fred attracts English interest

08/01/2008

Lyon striker Fred has alerted Premier League clubs to his possible availability after falling out with the French champions' hierarchy.

The 24-year-old Brazilian international is unhappy after starting most of his club matches this season from the bench.

And his situation has come to a head after he clashed with Stade Gerland officials over a delay in his return from a winter break.

Paris Saint Germain have indicated their willingness to explore a loan deal, but Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United have all been weighing up a permanent switch that is likely to cost around £9 million.

"Sao Paulo and Santos are attracted, but Fred wants to go on in Europe," Francis Mello, Fred's agent, told France Football.

"Two English sides have the means to pay the transfer fee asked by Lyon, which is important as l'OL [Lyon] doesn't want a loan yet."

The former Cruzeiro star was signed for Lyon by ex-Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier after amassing 90 goals in 130 games for clubs in his homeland, but the emergence of starlet Karin Benzema has limited his first-team opportunities.

News of Spurs' possible interest in Fred comes after Jermain Defoe was told he was free to leave White Hart Lane by manager Juande Ramos.

Both Manchester City and West Ham have made clear their desire to add to their attacking options after struggling for goals this term.