Manchester United are nearing an agreement with Atalanta for the transfer of midfielder Ederson in a deal valued at approximately €50 million. The move comes as new manager Michael Carrick prepares for a midfield overhaul, with Casemiro set to depart at the end of his contract in June.
Transfer expert Matteo Moretto reports a “decisive development” in negotiations, stating that United are close to agreeing a fee with Atalanta, having already secured personal terms with the 26-year-old. Moretto indicated that final details are still to be discussed, with further contacts expected next week, but the deal is progressing positively. Atletico Madrid had previously shown interest but withdrew due to their reluctance to meet Atalanta’s asking price.
Ederson is a versatile player capable of operating as either a defensive or central midfielder, possessing similar box-to-box qualities to Casemiro. However, he is not considered as defensively robust as the Brazilian veteran. He is expected to bring increased energy and act as a better link between defence and attack, improving United’s possession play.
Statistically, Ederson’s attacking output does not match Casemiro’s recent form. In the 2025/26 season, Ederson scored two goals and provided one assist in 30 appearances, compared to Casemiro’s nine goals, two assists, and 31 key passes in 34 games. Casemiro also completed more passes into the ‘hot zone’ – the attacking third – with 102 compared to Ederson’s 67.
United are also linked with Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson, suggesting Carrick intends to utilise dynamic full-backs to alleviate pressure on Bruno Fernandes’ creative responsibilities. The club also intends to sign a second central midfielder, expected to be a more prominent player capable of providing significant attacking flair. Carrick’s plan appears to be a broader transformation of Manchester United’s playing style, with Ederson playing a key role in a revamped midfield structure rather than directly replacing Casemiro’s individual contributions.
