Manchester United ‘Agree’ £43m Deal for Atalanta Star Ederson as Michael Carrick Targets Midfield Revamp
Manchester United are pushing forward with plans to strengthen their midfield ahead of the summer transfer window, and Atalanta star Ederson dos Santos has now emerged as one of the club’s top priorities.
After sealing qualification for next season’s Champions League under the guidance of Michael Carrick, United have gained a major financial boost and increased attraction for potential signings. With the club preparing for a return to Europe’s biggest competition, improving the midfield has become one of the key objectives at Old Trafford.
Ederson has continued to impress across Europe following another strong campaign with Atalanta BC. The Brazilian midfielder has built a reputation as one of Serie A’s most dependable performers over the past two seasons, and United’s recruitment department are now seriously considering a move for him.
Recent reports indicate that the 26-year-old would be interested in joining Manchester United, with personal terms unlikely to become a major issue if talks between both clubs advance. However, formal negotiations with Atalanta are still expected before any transfer can move closer to completion.
Since arriving from Salernitana in 2022, Ederson has developed into a vital part of Gian Piero Gasperini’s setup. His energy, ball-winning ability and forward-driving runs have turned him into one of the most complete midfielders currently playing in Italy.
Although primarily known for his work deeper in midfield, the Brazilian has also made attacking contributions, scoring 15 goals in 178 appearances for Atalanta in all competitions. His willingness to support attacks while maintaining defensive balance is viewed as one of his strongest qualities.
Manchester United are expected to make significant changes in midfield this summer. Questions remain surrounding the futures of experienced players like Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, while the club also continues to focus on the development of Kobbie Mainoo.
Mainoo has become increasingly influential during Carrick’s time in charge, especially after being given more freedom in advanced midfield positions. United believe Ederson’s defensive awareness and ability to move the ball forward could create the ideal balance, allowing younger creative midfielders to flourish.
Carrick has consistently emphasised the need for intensity, pressing and physical strength since stepping into the managerial role. Training methods at the club have reportedly become shorter but far more demanding, with heavy focus placed on transitions and positional organisation.
United’s recruitment plans appear to mirror that philosophy. The club are prioritising players capable of contributing in different phases of play rather than specialists limited to one specific task. Ederson’s versatility is considered a major advantage because he can operate as a holding midfielder, a box-to-box presence or even as a deeper playmaker depending on the tactical approach.
Several other midfielders have been linked with United in recent months, including Sandro Tonali, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adam Wharton. However, financial demands and competition from other clubs may make those deals more difficult to complete.
Compared to some of the more expensive names on United’s shortlist, Ederson is viewed internally as a more realistic option. Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has previously reported that Atalanta could demand between £35 million and £43 million for the midfielder.
That fee is believed to be within United’s reach following their Champions League qualification, especially if the club can raise further funds through player sales during the transfer window.
A number of departures are expected at Old Trafford as part of the squad overhaul. Uncertainty still surrounds the futures of players like Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Højlund, while several squad members who struggled for regular playing time could also leave.
Although United are expected to strengthen multiple areas of the squad, midfield remains the clearest concern. Despite the team’s improvement during the second half of the season, there is still a feeling within the club that the side lacks enough control and physical dominance in high-pressure matches against elite opposition.
Ederson’s displays in both Serie A and European competition have strengthened confidence that he could settle quickly into Premier League football. His physicality, stamina and relentless work rate are all viewed as qualities suited to the demands of English football.
The Brazilian has also thrived in Gasperini’s aggressive tactical system at Atalanta, where midfielders are required to work intensely both on and off the ball. United believe that experience could help him adapt smoothly to Carrick’s high-energy approach at Old Trafford.
While negotiations are still in the early stages, the increasing connection between Manchester United and Ederson highlights the club’s determination to rebuild the midfield before next season begins. With Champions League football returning to Old Trafford, preparations behind the scenes have accelerated as Carrick and the recruitment team continue identifying players capable of fitting into the manager’s long-term plans.
United are also expected to pursue defensive additions and more attacking depth as part of what could become a busy summer rebuild.
