Manchester United and Arsenal eye late hijack for Atalanta's Ederson
Manchester United and Arsenal are considering late moves to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson Silva, according to reports, despite the Brazilian having already agreed personal terms with Atletico Madrid. The 26-year-old is expected to leave Serie A this summer, with Atletico emerging as the frontrunner after securing a provisional agreement on a four-year contract worth a reported €5 million per season plus a signing bonus.
However, Sky Sport Italia reports that a gap remains between the clubs on the transfer fee. Atletico are preparing an initial offer of €35 million plus €3 million in add-ons, which falls short of Atalanta's €50 million valuation. This discrepancy has reportedly opened the door for Premier League interest, with Tutto Atalanta claiming Manchester United and Arsenal could now attempt to scupper the deal.
Ederson, who has three caps for Brazil, has been a key figure for Atalanta since joining from Salernitana in 2022. His powerful, box-to-box style has attracted consistent attention from top clubs, and he has declined contract extensions beyond 2027 to facilitate a transfer. His agent reportedly believes his client should be available for between €30 million and €40 million, a figure more aligned with the Spanish club's opening bid than Atalanta's asking price.
Manchester United's interest is long-standing, with the club's new football leadership under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and technical director Jason Wilcox seeking midfield reinforcements. The club is reportedly aiming to sign one premium midfielder and a second, more cost-effective option. At the reduced price being discussed, Ederson could fit the latter profile. United have also been linked with alternatives such as Sporting CP's Morten Hjulmand and Wolverhampton Wanderers' Joao Gomes.
Arsenal's potential involvement, described by Tutto Atalanta as a 'sensational entry', stems from their own desire to add depth and physicality to their midfield. The Gunners' newly-appointed sporting director, Andrea Berta, is reportedly a known admirer of Ederson from his previous role at Atletico Madrid, adding a layer of intrigue to any potential move from North London.
The financial muscle of the Premier League presents a significant threat to Atletico's deal, though the player is said to be open to a move to either England or Spain. For Atalanta, this summer represents their last major opportunity to command a substantial fee for a player whose contract has just over two years remaining. The coming weeks will determine whether the established agreement with Atletico holds firm or if a late auction materializes.
