Manchester United finished the Premier League season on a high note with a victory at Brighton & Hove Albion.
The focus will now turn to bolstering the squad, and the main priority should be the midfield department.
Casemiro is set to leave on a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of June.
Manuel Ugarte’s future is also uncertain. United seem prepared to sanction his departure.
The club are already working on potential replacements.
Earlier this week, it was reported that United are progressing in talks with Atalanta and could secure a deal worth £46 million to sign midfielder Ederson in the near future.
Reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that the Brazilian is refusing to speak with other clubs, and he is currently prioritising a transfer to the Red Devils.
United are likewise in ‘advanced talks’ with Atalanta and could secure his services soon.
Man Utd on the cusp of landing Ederson
The 26-year-old has been a long-term target for the Red Devils. He was first on their radar in the summer of 2024, before they secured Ugarte’s signature from Paris Saint-Germain.
Back then, Atalanta had no plans to part ways with their prized asset. United were willing to pay £46m, but the Bergamo outfit were adamant he would not be leaving.
The scenario has now changed with Ederson’s contract expiring in June next year. Atalanta need to sell him this summer, or they could lose him on a free transfer in 2027.
Hence, the Serie A side are no longer in a strong negotiating position, but they are still expected to demand a premium fee, given the ample competition for his services.
United have jumped ahead of the queue with early transfer talks. A £46m deal, including add-ons, is being discussed, and a verbal agreement could be reached next week.
Ederson should be a fine addition to the United squad. The Brazilian completed 89 percent of his passes in the recent Serie A campaign, while winning almost five duels per game.
He also won two tackles per outing with five recoveries. Ederson possesses a tireless work rate and has likewise caught the eye with his high-pressing, which United crave.
In short, Ederson has similar defensive traits to his Brazilian compatriot Casemiro, but he offers much more in terms of intensity, quality ball control and precise distribution.
United are planning to bring in two marquee midfielders. It has been reported in Italy that the club are ‘close to reaching an agreement‘ to sign Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali too.
Stats from Sofascore.com
