New manager Manuel Pellegrini has started lining up the top scorer at this year’s Confederations Cup as a true alternative to Cavani.
Fred’s Brazilian club, Fluminense, have privately indicated they are ready to do business if there is a serious offer on the table for the 29-year-old who looks certain to lead Brazil’s attack at the World Cup finals next year.
They played down the strong links with City on Tuesday, suggesting the centre-forward is happy in his homeland after a switch from France's Lyon in 2009.
But the player has 18 months left on his contract, and hinted strongly this week that he would listen to offers - if they are serious enough.
“I am doing great at Fluminense and I will only leave the club if there is a really great offer,” he explained.