Manchester United's midfield rebuild is gathering pace, with Ederson's arrival from Atalanta appearing increasingly close while fresh developments continue to emerge surrounding Sandro Tonali.
The Red Devils are expected to strengthen significantly in central midfield this summer following the departure of Casemiro, with new head coach Michael Carrick eager to reshape the engine room ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
While Tonali remains one of the most admired midfielders on United's shortlist, recent developments suggest a move may be difficult to complete.
Ederson deal edging towards completion
Manchester United appear set to secure their first major midfield addition of the summer.
The club reached an agreement with Atalanta earlier this month for Brazilian midfielder Ederson, with the overall package believed to be worth around £35 million.
The 27-year-old has now offered the strongest indication yet that the move is close to being finalised.
Speaking after Brazil’s World Cup victory over Haiti, Ederson suggested the transfer is nearing completion.
“It’s practically almost all sorted.” — Ederson, via Tuttosport
The midfielder also stressed his determination to remain focused on international duty while negotiations continue in the background.
If completed, the transfer would provide Carrick with a dynamic and experienced option capable of contributing immediately in both domestic and European competitions.
Tonali pursuit appears increasingly complicated
At the same time, Manchester United have received another reminder of how expensive a deal for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali would be.
Reports earlier this week suggested United had withdrawn from the race due to concerns over the overall financial package required to complete a transfer.
That decision appears increasingly understandable.
According to recent reports, Tottenham Hotspur have tested Newcastle's resolve with an offer worth around £80 million. However, the proposal was reportedly rejected immediately.
Further reports from Italy suggest Newcastle value Tonali at approximately €115 million (£100 million), making him one of the most expensive midfield targets on the market.
Newcastle remain in control
For Tonali, Newcastle continue to hold a powerful negotiating position.
The Italian remains under contract and there is no indication the Magpies are actively seeking a sale. The rejection of Tottenham's reported offer demonstrates their determination to keep one of their most important players.
Unless Newcastle soften their stance or the player actively pushes for a move, interested clubs face a difficult task convincing the Tyneside club to negotiate.
However, transfer windows can change quickly, particularly if major offers arrive later in the summer.
Key Points
- Manchester United are close to completing the signing of Ederson from Atalanta.
- The Brazilian has stated the move is "practically almost all sorted".
- Sandro Tonali remains admired by United.
- Newcastle reportedly rejected a Tottenham bid worth around £80m.
- Tonali's reported valuation is believed to exceed £100m.
What's Next?
Manchester United are expected to finalise Ederson's arrival once his World Cup commitments conclude. Attention could then turn towards additional midfield reinforcements as Carrick continues rebuilding the squad.
Regarding Tonali, United are likely to monitor developments rather than actively pursue a deal. Newcastle's valuation remains a major obstacle, and unless circumstances change significantly, the Italy international appears likely to remain at St James' Park for another season.
Would Ederson be enough to transform Manchester United's midfield, or should the club continue searching for another elite addition despite the cost of players like Sandro Tonali?
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