Manchester United Secures Midfielder Ederson
Manchester United has reached an agreement with Atalanta for the transfer of Brazilian midfielder Ederson. The deal for the 26-year-old is valued at an initial £35m (€40.5m) and could potentially increase to £38.8m (€45m) with add-ons. This acquisition marks the first signing under Michael Carrick‘s tenure as permanent manager. Ederson is expected to undergo a medical, with the transfer anticipated to be finalised in early July, prior to United’s return for pre-season training.
Ederson, who will turn 27 in July, has three international caps for Brazil. He was included in Carlo Ancelotti‘s initial 55-man squad for the World Cup but did not make the final selection. His playing style is described as dynamic, with an ability to read the game and disrupt opposition attacks.
The move for Ederson comes as United prioritises strengthening its central midfield. Veteran Brazilian Casemiro has departed the club following the expiry of his contract. There is also uncertainty surrounding the future of Manuel Ugarte, who was signed for £51m from Paris Saint-Germain in summer 2024 but rarely featured last season. Ugarte could be sold or loaned out before the transfer window closes on 1 September.
Carrick Seeks Additional Reinforcements
Carrick is reportedly keen on bringing in more players this summer, with a focus on bolstering the squad with three central midfielders, a left-back, and a striker. Beyond Ederson, United’s list of potential midfield targets includes Real Madrid‘s Aurélien Tchouaméni, Brighton‘s Carlos Baleba, and Crystal Palace‘s Adam Wharton.
Another midfield target, Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest, is also on United’s radar, though he is believed to favour a move to Manchester City. Forest reportedly values Anderson at a minimum of £100m. United also holds an interest in West Ham‘s Mateus Fernandes, though no formal offer has been made, and West Ham sources have mentioned a figure of £80m for the player.
In addition to midfield options, United are looking for a left-sided player, with Newcastle‘s Lewis Hall among those being considered. The club is also seeking striking support for Benjamin Sesko. The precise composition of the goalkeeping team is also under review, with former first-choice Andre Onana reportedly told he can seek another club. Goalkeeper Radek Vitek, who had a successful loan spell at Bristol City, has indicated he is open-minded about his future but desires regular playing time, suggesting he may not return to Old Trafford as a backup.
United has paused contract talks with captain Bruno Fernandes but remains calm about his future. The club’s data analysis operation has been revamped under Michael Sansoni, who has been significantly involved in identifying transfer targets alongside director of football Jason Wilcox. Carrick confirmed his involvement in recruitment meetings since being named interim successor to Ruben Amorim in January.
