Manchester United have entered advanced club-to-club negotiations with Atalanta for midfielder Ederson as new permanent manager Michael Carrick seeks to overhaul his squad for a return to the Champions League. The 26-year-old Brazilian is understood to be United’s primary midfield target, with a deal valued between €45m and €50m under discussion. According to Fabrizio Romano, Ederson has given "total priority" to the move, disregarding interest from other suitors to facilitate the transfer to Old Trafford.
Carrick restructures Manchester United midfield
The pursuit of Ederson arrives as United clarify their stance on out-of-favor personnel. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano confirmed that the club are actively seeking to sell Manuel Ugarte, who has struggled for consistency since his high-profile move from PSG. The urgency to secure Ederson is heightened by the expected departure of veteran Casemiro, as Carrick pivots toward a more mobile, high-pressing tactical setup. United’s recruitment drive also extends to long-term depth; the club has reportedly secured a "here we go" agreement for 17-year-old Colombian defensive midfielder Christian Orosco. The teenager will join from Envigado for approximately $1.5m once he turns 18 in July 2026, mirroring the club’s previous youth-focused acquisitions like Amad Diallo.
Alvarez and Pedro attract elite interest
Beyond Old Trafford, the European forward market is tightening ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Julian Alvarez is reportedly reconsidering his future at Atletico Madrid less than two years after his arrival from Manchester City. While Barcelona maintain interest, reports from Radio Marca suggest the Argentine forward has expressed a preference for PSG, despite Diego Simeone’s desire to keep him in Madrid. Simultaneously, Barcelona are exploring alternatives to the aging Robert Lewandowski. Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has emerged as a key candidate for the Catalan side, though his current valuation at Stamford Bridge may prove prohibitive for Barcelona’s delicate financial position. The Brazilian has become a central figure for Chelsea since his arrival from Brighton, and any potential deal is expected to exceed the €60m mark, placing significant pressure on Barca’s wage-to-revenue ratio.
Negotiations between United and Atalanta are expected to continue this week as both clubs look to reach a final agreement on the payment structure for Ederson.