Manchester United have reached a personal agreement with Atalanta midfielder Ederson, paving the way for a £38 million transfer that would mark the first signing of the Michael Carrick era. The 26-year-old Brazilian has prioritised a move to Old Trafford, pausing negotiations with other interested clubs, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Rapid Progress in Talks
Discussions have advanced swiftly over the past week, with a fee close to being finalised between United and the Serie A side. A full agreement could be in place by the end of the week, as United look to overhaul their midfield this summer. The club aims to sign at least two new midfielders, with three potentially needed if Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro depart.
Other Targets Under Consideration
United continue to assess additional options. Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni are top targets, but Anderson favours Manchester City, and Real are unwilling to sell Tchouameni. Brighton's Carlos Baleba remains a possibility despite an underwhelming season, while Mateus Fernandes, relegated with West Ham, could join if he favours United over Arsenal and PSG.
Ederson's absence from Atalanta's final Serie A match against Fiorentina was explained by coach Raffaele Palladino, who confirmed the midfielder is in advanced talks over a move. 'Ederson is out because a major club is following him,' Palladino said. 'It was a decision we agreed with the boy because there is something there at the transfer market level.'
Should the transfer be completed, Ederson will become the first acquisition under Michael Carrick, who signed a two-year deal as manager last week. United fans will hope the Brazilian adds steel and creativity to a midfield that has struggled for consistency this season.
