Atalanta’s coveted Brazilian maestro Ederson has reportedly drawn a clear line on his immediate future.
The 26-year-old is determined to move to the Spanish capital, despite concrete interest and lucrative offers from a number of Premier League giants including Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle United.
According to Spanish media outlet AS, Ederson officially rejected all approaches from England and strongly supported a move to Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid.
Manchester United and Arsenal reject Brazilian midfielder
England’s strong interest in Ederson is fully justified given his exceptional and consistent development in Serie A over the past few seasons.
It was recently heavily suggested that Arsenal could begin a second-half hijacking scheme, seeing the Brazilian as the perfect engine room reinforcement to support Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.
Meanwhile, Man United are looking for creative ways to secure his contract and were reportedly considering offering unpopular striker Joshua Zirkzee a potential player-for-cash deal.
Newcastle United also saw the 26-year-old as an ideal tactical fit for Eddie Howe’s high-intensity system. However, the Premier League’s financial strength appears to be losing ground to La Liga’s tactical appeal.
Ederson wants dream move to Atletico Madrid
Ederson’s dream is to play under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid.
Known for his aggressive pressing, tenacity in his tackles and relentless stamina, the Brazilian is tailored to the demanding, high-octane philosophy practiced at the Metropolitano Stadium.
However, although personal terms appear to have been resolved, finalizing the actual transfer fee remains a major hurdle. Atalanta, who are notoriously shrewd negotiators, are said to be holding out for a transfer fee of around £44 million (approximately €50 million).
Atlético’s initial offer is reported to be around £33m, with the board still having considerable work to do to close the valuation gap.
Italian giants Inter Milan and Juventus are also closely monitoring the situation with a view to taking over the country, but Atletico Madrid are certain to take the lead.
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