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Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of finalising their first acquisition of the summer transfer window, marking a significant step in their squad-building plans under newly appointed permanent manager Michael Carrick.

Following Carrick’s confirmation as full-time manager after orchestrating a remarkable turnaround in the latter half of the season, the club is now focused on reinforcing key areas of the first-team setup.

With a top-three Premier League finish secured, Manchester United have confirmed their participation in next season’s UEFA Champions League. That achievement ensures at least eight additional fixtures, intensifying the need for greater squad depth.

Carrick’s immediate priority has been to identify replacements for Casemiro, who is set to leave the club after four years at Old Trafford when his contract concludes at the end of this month.

According to reports from The Athletic, United have agreed terms with Atalanta midfielder Ederson, paving the way for the Brazilian to become the club’s first signing of the summer.

The deal is said to be worth €40.5 million (£34.9 million) as a fixed fee, with an additional €4.5 million (£3.8 million) in potential bonuses. Ederson has been offered a four-year contract, which also includes the option for a further 12 months.

Before an official announcement can be made, the 26-year-old midfielder must complete his medical tests. Following that, attention will turn to a detail that always excites supporters — his squad number.

Throughout his senior career, Ederson has consistently worn one specific number. Since the 2020–21 season with Fortaleza in Brazil, he has donned the No.13 jersey, continuing that tradition at both Salernitana and Atalanta over the past four seasons.

However, Ederson may not be able to continue wearing his preferred number at Manchester United. The No.13 shirt is currently taken by Patrick Dorgu, which means the Brazilian might have to choose an alternative number.

Before his stint with Fortaleza, Ederson wore No.40 at Cruzeiro and later switched to No.15 while representing Corinthians. For the Brazil national team, he has used No.8, No.17, and No.24 since making his senior debut in 2024.

At present, several other senior squad numbers are vacant at Old Trafford, including No.14, No.17 — previously worn by fellow Brazilian Fred — No.20, No.27, No.28, and No.29.

Once Casemiro’s departure is confirmed, the No.18 shirt will also become available. This number carries considerable history at Manchester United, having previously been worn by Paul Scholes, Ashley Young, and current captain Bruno Fernandes.