sevendayweekender – Manchester United have agreed a £35 million deal with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson, marking the club’s first major move to strengthen its midfield this summer. The agreement, worth approximately 40.5 million euros, reflects United’s intention to reshape the squad ahead of the new season.
Ederson, 26, is yet to undergo a medical examination. However, sources close to the negotiations expect the transfer to be completed in early July before Manchester United begin pre-season preparations.
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The midfielder has spent the past three seasons with Atalanta and established himself as one of Serie A’s most reliable central players. His versatility and work rate have attracted attention from several clubs across Europe, but United have moved quickly to secure his signature.
The Premier League club focused heavily on improving its attacking options last year. This summer, attention has shifted toward the centre of the pitch as United seek to replace departing experience and add greater balance to the squad.
The need for reinforcements increased following the departure of veteran midfielder Casemiro. The Brazilian’s exit has left a gap in United’s deeper midfield positions and forced the club to reassess its options.
Questions have also emerged regarding the future of Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguay international joined United from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 for a reported fee of £50 million. However, he struggled to establish himself consistently in the starting lineup.
Concerns over Ugarte’s standing were highlighted late last season. Head coach Michael Carrick chose not to use the midfielder after he started United’s home defeat against Leeds in April.
Reports suggest it would be a major surprise if Ugarte remains at Old Trafford after the transfer window closes on 1 September. Should he depart, Ederson’s arrival would become even more significant for United’s plans.
United Consider Additional Midfield Signings as Ederson Move Nears Completion
If Ugarte leaves and Ederson arrives, Manchester United would still lack experience in deeper midfield areas. Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, and Bruno Fernandes are generally deployed in more advanced roles and are not considered specialist holding midfielders.
As a result, United could pursue additional signings before the transfer window closes. Club officials are reportedly exploring the possibility of adding two or even three midfielders to strengthen the squad further.
The club also has promising options emerging from its academy system. Tyler Fletcher has gained international recognition after earning a place in Scotland’s World Cup squad. Meanwhile, Jacob Devaney impressed during a loan spell at St Mirren in the second half of last season.
Although he missed out on Carlo Ancelotti’s final selection, Ederson remains highly regarded within Brazilian football. His performances at club level have demonstrated his ability to adapt to multiple midfield positions.
During his time at Atalanta, Ederson scored 16 goals in 180 appearances across all competitions. His combination of defensive discipline and attacking contribution has made him an important figure for the Italian side.
Manchester United are also monitoring other midfield targets. However, no formal offer has been submitted for Fernandes. Sources at West Ham are reportedly uncertain whether United would meet the financial demands required to secure the player.
The London club, which suffered relegation last season, are said to value Fernandes at around £80 million. West Ham believe such a fee would represent a fair return on a player they signed from Southampton for more than £40 million last summer.
