Marco Silva raves about former Manchester United man Andreas Pereira

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Fulham manager Marco Silva has lavished praise on “outstanding” summer signing Andreas Pereira.

The former Manchester United midfielder signed a four-year deal at the promoted side with the Londoners having the option of extending his deal by a further 12 months.

The one-time Brazil international had spent 10 months back in his homeland on loan at Flamengo, but after the Brazilian side opted against signing the versatile midfielder on a permanent deal, the Cottagers brought him to Craven Cottage.

According to Sky Sports, United have a 20 per cent sell-on fee inserted in the deal, with Fulham paying £8m up front and a further £2m in add-ons.

Marco Silva raves about Andreas Pereira

Prior to his summer’s move, Pereira’s last competitive appearance for the Reds came in August 2020 and as well as Flamengo, Pereira had loan spells with Lazio, Granada and Valencia during his time at the Theatre of Dreams.

The 26-year-old’s decision to leave Old Trafford on a permanent deal was the best move for all parties.

He didn’t form part of Erik ten Hag’s plans and Fulham’s number 18 is getting the regular first team football he craved.

Manchester United are not missing Pereira by any stretch of imagination, but credit where credit is due, the ex-Red Devils has made an impressive start to life in west London.

As well as starting all 12 of Fulham’s Premier League games this season, Pereira has provided one goal and four assists.

Only Bernardo Silva (5), Alex Iwobi (5) and Kevin De Bruyne (9) have provided more assists than Pereira in the top-flight.

Speaking after his side’s 3-2 win against Leeds United, which Pereira laid on two assists, Silva was full of praise for the man who played 75 times for Manchester United.

Silva said: “He has been outstanding this season. I know a lot of people had doubts when I decided to sign him but I knew his qualities and his character.

“Even last season we had a conversation about his future, but it wasn’t the right moment for him to join us. He’s a key player on and off the ball and with set pieces. Two assists this afternoon. A top professional who is enjoying himself at the moment in a white shirt.”

Manchester United travel to Craven Cottage to face Pereira’s Fulham on 13 November.