Manchester United are continuing their preparations for a major midfield rebuild this summer, with Ederson dos Santos emerging as one of the club’s leading targets ahead of the transfer window.
United secured qualification for next season’s Champions League after a strong finish to the Premier League campaign under Michael Carrick, giving the club greater financial flexibility and renewed appeal in the transfer market. Midfield reinforcements are expected to be one of the main priorities as United reshape the squad ahead of their return to European competition.
Ederson has attracted growing interest across Europe following another impressive season with Atalanta BC. The Brazilian midfielder has established himself as one of the most consistent players in Serie A over the last two years and is now being seriously considered by United’s recruitment team.
Reports in recent days have suggested that the 26-year-old is open to a move to Old Trafford and that personal terms may not present a significant obstacle if negotiations progress between the clubs. United are still expected to hold formal discussions with Atalanta before any agreement can be finalised.
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The midfielder is viewed internally as a player capable of adding balance and athleticism to Carrick’s side. United are looking for players who can improve their control in midfield areas while also offering energy out of possession, an area where Ederson has built a strong reputation during his time in Italy.
Since joining Atalanta from Salernitana in 2022, the Brazilian has become a key figure in Gian Piero Gasperini’s system. His ability to cover large areas of the pitch, recover possession and carry the ball forward has made him one of the most complete midfielders in the division.
Ederson has also contributed regularly in attacking situations. He has scored 15 goals in 178 appearances for Atalanta across all competitions, numbers that reflect his willingness to support attacks despite primarily operating in a deeper midfield role.
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United’s midfield structure is expected to undergo significant changes during the summer. Questions remain over the futures of several senior players, including Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, while the club continues to assess how best to support the development of Kobbie Mainoo.
Mainoo has become one of United’s most important players during Carrick’s spell in charge. The academy graduate has thrived in a more advanced role in recent weeks, benefiting from a midfield structure that gives him greater freedom in possession.
The potential arrival of Ederson is seen as a move that could complement Mainoo’s strengths. The Brazilian’s defensive work and ability to progress the ball through midfield would allow United to maintain balance while still giving their younger midfielders space to influence games creatively.
Carrick has repeatedly spoken about the importance of intensity and physicality since taking charge at Old Trafford. United’s coaching staff have introduced shorter but more demanding training sessions, with a stronger focus on pressing, transitions and positional discipline.
Recruitment plans appear to reflect that approach. United are targeting players capable of operating in multiple phases of play rather than specialists limited to one role. Ederson’s versatility has made him an attractive option because he can function as a holding midfielder, box-to-box runner or deeper playmaker depending on the tactical setup.
The club’s recruitment department has monitored several midfield targets in recent months. Sandro Tonali, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adam Wharton have all been linked with United at various stages, although financial considerations and competition from rival clubs could complicate those deals.
Ederson is viewed as a more attainable option in comparison to some of the higher-priced targets on United’s shortlist. Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has previously suggested that Atalanta could demand a fee in the region of £35 million to £43 million for the midfielder.
That valuation is considered manageable for United following their return to the Champions League, particularly if the club can generate additional funds through outgoing transfers during the summer.
Several departures are expected at Old Trafford as part of the squad rebuild. Loan situations involving players such as Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Højlund remain unresolved, while uncertainty also surrounds the futures of other squad members who have struggled for regular minutes.
United’s transfer strategy is expected to focus on quality rather than volume, though midfield remains the clearest area requiring immediate attention. Carrick’s side improved considerably in the second half of the season, but there remains a belief inside the club that the team still lacks enough control in high-intensity matches against elite opposition.
Ederson’s performances in Serie A and European competition have strengthened the view that he could adapt quickly to Premier League football. His physical profile and work rate are seen as particularly suited to the pace of the English game.
The Brazilian has also demonstrated consistency during Atalanta’s demanding tactical system under Gasperini, which requires midfielders to operate aggressively both in and out of possession. United believe those experiences could ease the transition into Carrick’s style at Old Trafford.
While discussions are still at an early stage, the growing links between United and Ederson reflect the club’s intention to reshape the midfield before the start of next season. The return of Champions League football has accelerated planning behind the scenes, with Carrick and senior figures within the recruitment department working closely to identify players capable of fitting the manager’s long-term vision.
United’s summer business is expected to extend beyond midfield, with interest also focused on defensive reinforcements and attacking depth.
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