Manchester United close in on £38m Ederson signing

GistReel

Manchester United are closing in on their first major signing under Michael Carrick, with Atalanta midfielder Ederson expected to complete a £38 million move to Old Trafford.

The deal is understood to be in advanced stages, with around £35 million set to be paid upfront. The 26-year-old has already agreed personal terms and is expected to become the first arrival of the Carrick era.

Transfer breakthrough after midfield overhaul plan

United have prioritised strengthening their defensive midfield options as part of a wider rebuild, with Ederson identified as a cost-effective solution to reinforce the squad and eventually replace Casemiro.

The Brazilian has been monitored since last summer and was initially expected to join Atlético Madrid, but the Spanish club’s shift in focus towards Wolverhampton Wanderers’ João Gomes opened the door for United to accelerate negotiations.

Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino confirmed the player’s absence from a recent match was linked to transfer activity, stating: “Ederson out? It was a decision we agreed with the boy because there’s something going on in the transfer market.”

He added: “The fact that such a player is being followed by such a big club should be a source of pride.”

Carrick rebuild takes early shape

United’s recruitment strategy under INEOS leadership is focused on disciplined spending, with club officials determined not to overpay for a holding midfielder despite ongoing interest in multiple targets.

Ederson, who joined Atalanta from Salernitana in 2022, has made 180 appearances for the Italian side, scoring 16 goals and providing six assists.

While valued for his defensive work rate, his progressive passing metrics place him outside the elite bracket of European midfield creators.

Alternative targets remain under consideration, including Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, while Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is also admired but carries a £100 million valuation and growing interest from Manchester City.

United are pushing to complete the deal quickly to avoid drawn-out negotiations and secure their first addition ahead of a crucial squad rebuild phase.