Manchester United are preparing to smash their midfield spending limits to secure Ederson from Atalanta this summer, according to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla. The Red Devils have emerged as frontrunners in the race for the Brazilian midfielder after being the first club to make a formal approach over 18 months ago.
United's pursuit intensifies as Atletico Madrid pivots toward alternative targets. The Spanish club had been the favourite for Ederson but refused to exceed €39 million when Atalanta demanded €43 million, prompting them to accelerate their interest in Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes instead. This shift has cleared a path for United to move decisively.
Arsenal in Talks but United Leading Race
Arsenal remain active in the conversation, with sporting director Andrea Berta identified as a significant admirer of the 24-year-old. The Gunners are exploring financial packages to tempt Atalanta into a sale, but Pedulla's sources indicate United hold the advantage after establishing early groundwork on both contract terms and transfer fee.
The midfielder hunt reflects United's midfield overhaul plans. With Manuel Ugarte likely to depart alongside Casemiro, manager Erik ten Hag could recruit up to three new central midfielders. Ederson represents better value than marquee alternatives like Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Sandro Tonali, while offering Champions League experience from his three seasons in Serie A.
Negotiations are expected to accelerate next week as United attempts to break through the €40 million threshold that stalled previous discussions. The key battleground remains wages, where Atletico Madrid had previously reached agreement before stumbling on valuation disputes. United's willingness to surpass initial asking prices suggests their determination to reshape midfield ahead of European football's return.
