Manchester United have opened formal talks with Atalanta over the signing of midfielder Ederson, according to Sky Sports' Transfer Centre. The 25-year-old Brazilian — who should not be confused with Manchester City's goalkeeper of the same name — has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe under Gian Piero Gasperini at Atalanta, winning the Europa League in 2024 and producing consistently outstanding performances in Serie A.
Why Ederson?
Michael Carrick, now beginning his first full summer as Manchester United manager, has been given a clear brief: rebuild the defensive midfield. United have lacked a commanding, press-resistant midfielder for years. Ederson fits the profile perfectly — he reads the game early, wins the ball back quickly, and distributes simply and effectively. He is the kind of player who makes his teammates better without needing to be the center of attention.
The Fee Discussion
Atalanta value Ederson at around 55-65 million euros. United are expected to make a formal bid once the transfer window opens. The player is understood to be open to the move — the prospect of playing Premier League football appeals, and Carrick's track record of developing midfielders, both as a player and a coach, gives him confidence in the project at Old Trafford.
Carrick's Blueprint
Carrick's message upon being named permanent United manager was clear: "Time to move forward with purpose." Ederson would be a statement signing — proof that United are rebuilding properly this time rather than papering over cracks. Alongside the tactical changes Carrick plans to implement, a dominant defensive midfielder could be the foundation on which a genuine title challenge is built.
Source: Sky Sports, Transfer Centre. Image: Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 2.0.
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