Manchester United are accelerating their efforts to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson this summer, with the Premier League club now reportedly favoured to secure his signature. According to reports from Italian outlet Calciomercato, contacts between United and the player's representatives have intensified, with the Old Trafford club possessing the financial resources to meet Atalanta's valuation, believed to be in the region of €45-50 million.
This development comes after a potential move to Atletico Madrid stalled. The Spanish side had reportedly reached a verbal agreement with the 25-year-old Brazilian, but have so far been unwilling to meet the Italian club's asking price, a situation which has opened the door for United. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also confirmed Ederson is a name on United's midfield shortlist, describing him as a potential option available in that price range.
The pursuit aligns with United's stated priority to strengthen their midfield following a summer window last year that focused predominantly on attacking reinforcements. With Casemiro expected to depart and the future of Manuel Ugarte uncertain, the club's new leadership under INEOS is targeting the acquisition of at least two new midfielders. Ederson, whose full name is Ederson Silva, has established himself as a dynamic and combative presence in Serie A, helping Atalanta to consistent European qualification and impressing with his energy and ball-winning ability.
However, United are not without competition for the player's signature. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Arsenal are also monitoring the situation, keeping tabs on Ederson as they assess their own midfield options. The player's contract situation, which runs until the summer of 2027, gives Atalanta a strong negotiating position, explaining their firm valuation. Atletico Madrid's concurrent talks with Wolverhampton Wanderers for midfielder Joao Gomes suggest they are exploring alternatives, potentially further clearing the path for Premier League suitors.
For Manchester United, securing a player of Ederson's profile would address a clear need for more physicality and defensive solidity in the center of the park. His style offers a contrast to the more creative players already at the club and would provide a platform for them to operate. For Ederson, a move to Old Trafford represents a significant step up in profile and a chance to test himself in the Premier League, a logical next step in his career progression after three successful seasons in Bergamo. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether United can translate their reported advantage into a formal agreement with Atalanta.
