Manchester United’s summer transfer plans appear to be progressing rapidly, with the club reportedly in talks with Atalanta to sign Brazilian midfielder Ederson.
According to Sky Sports, United have begun serious negotiations for the 26-year-old, but the two clubs have not yet agreed on a full transfer fee.
Atalanta believe Ederson is worth around £45m, but there is growing belief that they could ultimately reach an agreement for less.
The reason is simple. Ederson’s contract expires next summer, so Atalanta would not be in a position to demand a large transfer fee if the player is not willing to sign a new contract.
Manchester United move forward with signing Ederson
Sky Sports also report that there are no expected issues with his personal terms, which is always a positive sign in a transfer like this.
This feels like one of the first big signs of Man United’s midfield rebuild under Michael Carrick.
The club are eyeing a number of midfielders, including Brighton’s Carlos Baleva and West Ham’s Matheus Fernandes, but Ederson appears to be one of the most likely options at this stage.
United’s interest in him is not new. They have been following Ederson for some time from his time at Atalanta, where he built a strong reputation as one of Serie A’s most reliable all-action midfielders.
Although he is not a flashy high-class player, he does many important jobs such as pressing, covering the ground, winning duels, carrying the ball forward, and helping to maintain the team’s strength in the center of the pitch.
The biggest hint that something serious was going on came from Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino.
Ederson was left as an unused substitute when Atalanta drew with Fiorentina, but Paladino later admitted that this decision was related to interest from “top clubs” and ongoing negotiations.
Brazilian player is likely to move to Old Trafford
Football Italia reported that his absence was a deliberate decision in agreement with the player and that a move to Man United is increasingly likely.
This kind of public disclosure usually speaks volumes. Managers usually do not openly discuss transfer negotiations without key players unless the situation is very advanced.
This does not mean the deal is done, but it does suggest that there is real movement behind the scenes.
For United, Ederson could provide something they desperately need. With Casemiro on the move and Manuel Ugarte also facing an uncertain future, Carrick needs a midfielder who can bring leg power, discipline and physical presence without slowing down the team.
According to reports, United want to add at least two midfielders this summer, especially after securing football in the Champions League and preparing for next season’s packed schedule.
Ederson’s contract situation also makes him attractive. Atalanta may want £45m, but with only one year left on his contract United will feel they can negotiate.
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