Manchester United push for Ederson as Atalanta favour €45m summer sale

Manchester United are stepping up their pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with fresh reports from Italy suggesting the Serie A side now prefer selling the Brazilian to Old Trafford rather than elsewhere this summer.

Midfield has been one of the clearest areas Manchester United are expected to address in the upcoming transfer window, and Ederson has moved firmly into focus after months of tracking.

According to reports in Italy, United have intensified their efforts in recent weeks and are now in a stronger position than both Juventus and Atletico Madrid to complete the deal.

For Michael Carrick, strengthening central midfield looks increasingly non-negotiable.

United’s interest in Ederson is not new. The club have been following the Atalanta midfielder since 2024 and have maintained regular contact over a potential move.

Now, with summer planning accelerating, that long-term interest appears to be turning into something more serious.

TuttoSport reports that Manchester United have already made several approaches and are actively pushing to get ahead of rival interest.

Atletico Madrid had reportedly agreed personal terms with the player’s camp, but their €35 million offer failed to meet Atalanta’s demands. That has opened the door wider for United.

The Italian side are now said to favour a deal with the Premier League club because United are prepared to go higher.

Atalanta’s position appears straightforward. They are willing to sell Ederson this summer, but only for the right price.

With his contract running until 2027, the Italian side remain in control of negotiations and are looking to maximise value. The figure now being discussed is €45 million.

That would be enough, according to reports, to secure the midfielder’s signature and beat Atletico Madrid to the deal.

For United, that valuation feels in line with the current market — especially for a player entering his prime years.

Ederson’s profile makes sense for United’s evolving midfield. Primarily a number eight, he can also operate deeper when needed and offers a blend of technical security and physical intensity. That versatility is important.

With Casemiro moving on and Manuel Ugarte’s future uncertain, United need midfielders capable of handling multiple roles.

Ederson’s ability to receive under pressure and progress the ball quickly has been one of his biggest strengths at Atalanta.

Based on Atalanta’s recent matches, his timing of late runs into attacking spaces has also become a key part of his game. That adds something United’s midfield has lacked.

Manchester United are expected to decide quickly whether to formalise their €45m move as competition remains active.

Atletico Madrid could still return with an improved offer, while Juventus remain monitoring. Atalanta want clarity before pre-season planning begins. That means movement on this deal could come sooner rather than later.