Man Utd, Arsenal Consider Late Hijack of Atletico's Ederson Deal
Manchester United and Arsenal are considering late moves to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson, despite the Brazilian reportedly having agreed personal terms with Atletico Madrid. According to Sky Sport Italia, the 26-year-old has accepted a four-year contract worth €5m per season with a signing bonus from the Spanish club, who are preparing an opening bid of €35m plus add-ons. However, Atalanta's €50m valuation leaves a significant gap, opening the door for Premier League interest.
Italian outlet Tutto Atalanta reports that there are 'sirens' in Madrid as both Manchester United and Arsenal could attempt to scupper the proposed transfer. United are described as long-term admirers who remain strongly interested, while Arsenal have been tipped to make a 'sensational entry' into the race with a bid of their own. Ederson, who has three caps for Brazil, is said to be open to a move to either La Liga or the Premier League.
The situation is complicated by the player's contract, which runs until June 2027. Having rejected extension talks, this summer represents Atalanta's last major opportunity to command a substantial fee for the midfielder. His agent believes his client should be available for between €30m and €40m, a figure significantly below the Italian club's current asking price. This discrepancy is what has allowed other suitors to enter the fray.
For Manchester United, a move for Ederson would align with a reported transfer strategy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and sporting director Jason Wilcox. The club is said to be aiming for one top-quality midfield signing, with a second, more cost-effective acquisition to follow. At a potential fee below €40m, Ederson fits the profile for that secondary role. United have also been linked with alternatives such as Sporting CP's Morten Hman and Freiburg's Johan Manzambi.
Arsenal's interest, meanwhile, stems from a desire to add depth and quality to their midfield options. The Gunners' potential involvement is reportedly being driven by their own recruitment plans for the summer window. The financial power of Premier League clubs poses a constant threat to deals agreed elsewhere, and both English sides could easily surpass the salary terms offered by Atletico Madrid.
Ederson has been a consistent performer for Atalanta since joining from Salernitana in 2022, helping the club to a third-place finish in Serie A last season and establishing himself as a robust, box-to-box presence. His potential availability has attracted attention for several windows, with Newcastle United also linked as a possible destination in January. The coming weeks will determine whether Atletico Madrid can finalize their long-planned move or if a late intervention from England changes the course of the transfer.
