Manchester United have made a significant move in the transfer market, tabling a €45 million verbal offer for Atalanta midfielder Ederson Silva. The 26-year-old Brazilian international has emerged as a priority target for the Red Devils as they look to strengthen their central midfield this summer. The offer represents a decisive shift in United's typical negotiating approach under new ownership INEOS, who have historically opened talks well below asking prices.
Ederson, who holds three caps for the Brazil national team, has made it clear he wants to leave Atalanta this window. The Serie A club have valued the midfielder at around €45 million, a figure that Atlético Madrid previously deemed excessive given his contract situation. With only twelve months remaining on his current deal at the Italian outfit, Atlético believed the valuation was inflated. However, Manchester United have chosen to meet Atalanta's demands immediately, signalling their intent to secure the player quickly.
Talks Accelerate Between Clubs
Sources indicate that Friday's meeting between Manchester United and Atalanta proved productive, with both parties engaged in positive discussions. Reporter Edu Burgos confirmed the verbal offer had been tabled, while transfer expert Ben Jacobs stated that negotiations are gathering momentum and could be concluded swiftly. "Progress is being made and talks are heating up," Jacobs wrote, noting that Atalanta's €45 million to €50 million valuation range remains under discussion.
The midfielder has already indicated his willingness to join Michael Carrick's squad, with multiple sources confirming Ederson opened to the move. While personal terms have yet to be finalised between United and the player, this is not anticipated to present obstacles. The Brazilian's relatively modest wage demands compared to his quality suggest an agreement could materialise within days rather than weeks.
Ederson could represent the first piece of United's midfield puzzle and potentially the less expensive of two central midfield acquisitions this summer, according to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio. His arrival would address a key weakness in Carrick's setup as Manchester United prepare for an ambitious 2025-26 campaign.
