Empoli's Liam Henderson, right, challenges Ederson of Atalanta.Empoli's Liam Henderson, right, challenges Ederson of Atalanta.
Empoli's Liam Henderson, right, challenges Ederson of Atalanta. | Getty Images
Man United are reportedly keen on the midfielder following an inconsistent first season for Manuel Ugarte.
If they do, they will have much more pulling power in the transfer market as Ruben Amorim aims to build a squad which is capable of succeeding in his 3-4-3 system, something that United have failed to do this year.
One position of uncertainty is in midfield, with Christian Eriksen leaving, and the futures of Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro up in the air, United are likely to try and sign a central midfielder this summer.
Man United ‘open talks’ for Ederson
The Brazilian has made 47 appearances for the Italian side this season, scoring five goals and providing two assists. He has become a key player for Atalanta too, as somewhat of an anchor in their midfield.
According to Italian outlet Tutto Atalanta, following Manuel Ugarte’s inconsistent performances this season at Old Trafford, United are wanting to sign a new midfielder. They have identified Ederson as a ‘key option’ and have reportedly opened talks to land the 25-year-old.
Following the £42m bid last summer, United will need to raise their bid to sign Ederson, in the hope that they can tempt Atalanta to sell him, however, it could be tricky considering his key role in the team.
Former club captain Papu Gomez recently claimed in an interview with AS that Ederson is “among the top ten in Europe” at his position.
Tottenham and Man City have previously been linked to the Brazilian, but it looks as though United are the frontrunners to sign him should he leave Atalanta this summer, however, they would need to submit a hefty bid.
Ederson could help to replace Kobbie Mainoo
This has sparked rumours suggesting that the Red Devils could decide to sell him and take the profits rather than spend big on a new contract for Mainoo. Chelsea showed an interest in January, and it has been said that they are still keeping an eye on Mainoo’s situation at Old Trafford.
The midfielder has seen injury problems this season, making just 23 Premier League appearances this campaign, and failing to score or assist in those 23 games. It is not yet understood as to whether the 20-year-old will sign a new deal, but seeing as they are at a stalemate, United could opt to sell him and bring in Ederson instead.
As things stand, Mainoo likely wouldn’t be sold for less than £70m as United views him as one of the most promising and talented midfielders in Europe. Many fans will hope that the two parties can agree a deal however to keep the English star at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future.
Continue Reading