Manchester United are approaching their first major signing Michael Carrickwith the Atalanta midfielder Ederson the £38 million move is expected to be completed Old Trafford.
The deal is thought to be at an advanced stage, with around £35m to be paid up front. The 26-year-old has already agreed personal terms and is expected to become the first player of the Carrick era.
Breakthrough in the transfer after the midfield overhaul plan
United have prioritized strengthening their defensive midfield options as part of a wider rebuild, with Ederson identified as a cost-effective solution to bolster the squad and eventually replace Casemiro.
The Brazilian has been tracked since last summer and was initially expected to join Atlético Madrid, but the Spanish club’s move for Wolverhampton Wanderers’ João Gomes has opened the door for United to speed up negotiations.
Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino confirmed the player’s absence from the recent game was linked to transfer activity, saying: “Ederson out? It was a decision we agreed with the boy because something happens in the transfer market.”
He added: “The fact that such a player is followed by such a big club should be a source of pride.”
Carrick’s rebuild takes early shape
United’s INEOS-led recruitment strategy is focused on disciplined spending, with club officials determined not to overpay for the rear midfielder despite continued interest in more targets.
Ederson, who joined Atalanta from Salernitana in 2022, has made 180 appearances for the Italian side, scoring 16 goals and providing six assists.
Although he is valued for his defensive work rate, his progressive passing metrics place him outside the elite circle of European midfield creators.
Alternative targets are also being considered, including Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, while Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson is also valued but has a £100m valuation and increasing interest from Manchester City.
United are keen to complete the deal quickly to avoid protracted negotiations and secure their first signing ahead of a crucial stage of the squad’s rebuilding.
