Manchester United have reportedly held discussions with the representatives of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with the club seemingly being given the go-ahead to pursue a deal by his agents. The Brazilian has been strongly linked with a switch to Old Trafford over recent weeks as United look to revamp their midfield options ahead of Casemiro's departure.
Interest from Italy and Premier League
United face competition for Ederson, with Sky Sports Switzerland reporting that the most concrete interest is emerging from Italy. The 26-year-old is expected to depart Atalanta this summer after impressing in Serie A. The report adds that United are amongst the clubs monitoring the midfielder closely and have conducted talks with his representatives. Ederson is said to 'dream' of a switch to the Premier League this summer.
United's midfield overhaul plans
While discussions have occurred, Ederson is reportedly not a top priority for United. The club are eager to overhaul their midfield options this summer, with Elliott Anderson and Adam Wharton on their transfer shortlist. However, Manchester City appear to be leading the chase for Nottingham Forest's Anderson, a setback for United. They are reported to be targeting three new central midfielders for a combined fee of £150 million.
Casemiro has confirmed he will leave Old Trafford at the end of the campaign, while Manuel Ugarte is also expected to secure a move elsewhere. Any new arrivals would need to fit alongside Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes in the United squad.
Alternative targets and Ederson's profile
United are also pursuing Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes, but he appears set for Atletico Madrid, which could open the door for United to pursue Ederson. The Brazilian has featured 40 times across all competitions for Atalanta this season, scoring 3 goals and registering 2 assists. He enters the final year of his contract next summer and is valued at around £40 million.
Ederson was strongly linked with a switch to Atletico Madrid last summer, but negotiations collapsed and he remained with Atalanta. Discussing interest in the player this week, Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi acknowledged attention but dismissed any formal bids. "We have no official offers, only interest from other teams," he told Tuttomercatoweb. "I think it's unlikely that teams will make a move before the end of the season. Interest in our players is normal, but we'll evaluate them at the right time with great serenity and calm."
