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Manchester United closing in on deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson
Sameer Bhatia | May 24, 2026 3:31 PM CST

Manchester United are reportedly making swift progress in their pursuit of a new midfielder, with Atalanta star Ederson said to be very close to completing a transfer to Old Trafford. As per journalist Matteo Moretto, the Brazilian midfielder is just one step away from joining United, with a transfer fee expected to be around £34.5 million plus additional bonuses.

Although the deal has not been officially finalised, all indications suggest that negotiations are moving in a positive direction.

Reports from both Italy and England indicate that United have already reached an agreement with Ederson on personal terms, while discussions with Atalanta have advanced significantly following mutual progress on the transfer fee.

Earlier, The Guardian had reported that United viewed Ederson as a potential replacement for Casemiro, with Atalanta valuing the player between €40 million and €50 million.

This move appears logical for Manchester United, who have long needed to overhaul their midfield setup.

With Casemiro set to depart and Manuel Ugarte yet to fully convince, manager Michael Carrick is keen to add midfielders who can bring more energy, discipline, and balance to the team.

Ederson fits that mould perfectly. He may not be a showy playmaker constantly searching for spectacular passes, but he is precisely the kind of midfielder who ensures the team operates smoothly.

Known for his work rate, ability to win duels, pressing intensity, and efficient ball movement, Ederson has been one of Atalanta’s most dependable performers.

In April, talkSPORT reported that United had added Ederson to their list of summer transfer targets as part of a broader plan to restructure their midfield.

The same report mentioned that Jason Wilcox is an admirer of the player, and that United are looking to bring in multiple midfield signings before the next season begins.

This wider strategy is important to note, as Ederson is unlikely to be the only midfielder United add this summer.

The club have also been linked with players such as Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba, and Adam Wharton. However, Ederson appears to be a more practical and affordable choice compared to some of those names.

At a reported fee of around £34.5 million plus add-ons, the move could prove to be a smart piece of business.

Manchester United have previously spent heavily on big-name players who did not always fit the team’s tactical needs. Ederson’s potential signing feels different.

He seems like a player recruited for a specific role rather than for his name value. Carrick has recently spoken about wanting midfielders with composure, physical strength, and the ability to manage quick transitions. Ederson appears to align perfectly with that vision.


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