Manchester United are on the cusp of landing the signature of Atalanta midfielder Ederson after he was left out of the matchday squad to face Fiorentina on Friday night.
The Red Devils are planning to sign at least two midfielders this summer. Casemiro will be on his way out with his contract expiring at the end of the campaign.
Manuel Ugarte has failed to meet expectations since his move from Paris Saint-Germain two years ago. United could cut their losses on the Uruguayan ace.
It was reported yesterday that United have almost sealed the deal with Atalanta for Ederson, and they are expected to pay around £46 million, including add-ons.
Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has now confirmed that the midfielder was left out of the 1-1 Serie A draw against Fiorentina away due to transfer activity.
The 42-year-old added that he is being followed by ‘such a big club’, which is a source of pride.
He said (via Napoli Magazine): “Ederson out? It was a decision we agreed with the boy because there’s something going on in the transfer market. The fact that such a player is being followed by such a big club should be a source of pride.”
United on the verge of landing Ederson
The Red Devils have been guilty of haggling on some transfer deals in the past, but that could change this summer. The club confirmed yesterday the permanent appointment of Michael Carrick as manager, and there could be an early spending spree.
Ederson has not been selected in Brazil’s squad for the summer World Cup, but there is still genuine interest. Atletico Madrid agreed personal terms with the 26-year-old earlier this year, but the La Liga outfit have been reluctant to meet the price tag.
The La Liga outfit have moved on to signing Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Joao Gomes instead, but United will be aware of interest from elsewhere in Ederson.
Reputed journalist David Ornstein recently confirmed that Arsenal are also among the contenders. This could be a reason why United are pushing through an early deal.
Palladino has dropped a huge hint that Ederson is on his way out. It could be a matter of time before the Red Devils reach a verbal agreement for the Brazilian’s transfer.
Ederson should be a fantastic signing for United. He is good with the ball at his feet and completed an impressive 89 percent of his passes during the Serie A season.
The midfielder also won close to five duels per game alongside two tackles and five recoveries. His tireless work rate and high pressing would suit Carrick’s playing style at United.
He may not be a guaranteed starter for the number six position, and the club are still expected to pursue another marquee signing alongside the Brazilian this summer.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
