Top News

Manchester United are stepping up their transfer activity following their top-three finish in the Premier League.

The Red Devils are seeking to finalise their first signing of the summer after confirming qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Under Michael Carrick, Manchester United have now defeated every other member of the traditional ‘Big Six’ this campaign. Their 3-2 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford last weekend sealed their strong domestic form and paved the way for a return to Europe’s elite competition next season.

With several short-term objectives already achieved, focus at Old Trafford has now shifted towards strengthening the squad during the summer transfer window.

Although Casemiro is expected to depart English football this summer as his contract at the Theatre of Dreams comes to an end, young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has penned a long-term deal to extend his stay at the club.

The identity of Mainoo’s midfield partner for the upcoming season remains uncertain. However, Atalanta’s Brazilian playmaker Ederson has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester over the past 18 months.

According to a report from Italian outlet Calciomercato, Ederson, who wears the number 6 shirt for Atalanta, has already reached a verbal agreement with Atletico Madrid. However, there appears to be a stumbling block regarding the transfer fee required to take him to Spain.

It is reported that Atalanta are holding out for around £40 million, a price Atletico Madrid are hesitant to meet — a sum that would pose less of a problem for Manchester United.

Diego Simeone’s side are said to have identified an alternative in Brazilian midfielder Joao Gomes from Wolverhampton Wanderers, who was recently relegated. However, Napoli are also keen on Gomes — the same club that have been linked with Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee.

With their Champions League qualification secured, Manchester United could be in the strongest position to make a formal offer for Ederson. Yet, the club must balance this pursuit with several other priorities within the squad.

Reports suggest that the 20-time English champions may aim to recruit two new central midfielders, especially with Manuel Ugarte struggling to make an impact since joining from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024.

Manchester United are also expected to explore options for new full-backs on both flanks. However, the need for another central defender might have eased following Harry Maguire’s decision to remain in the northwest for another season.

In attacking areas, reinforcements could also be considered. Beyond the first-choice front three of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, squad depth remains thin. With Joshua Zirkzee, Marcus Rashford and Mason Mount all being linked with possible exits, new arrivals up front appear likely.

Ederson’s current market valuation stands at approximately €40 million, according to Transfermarkt. Manchester United will return to Premier League action this weekend with a trip to Sunderland.