Since the end of the season, speculation has intensified around several high-profile names in European football. While some deals have cooled, others are beginning to gather momentum, and one such name is Ederson, the Brazilian midfielder making waves at Atalanta. Both Manchester United and Manchester City, coming off the back of inconsistent campaigns, are eyeing reinforcements in midfield, and Ederson has emerged as a top target. It’s no surprise either, the 25-year-old has been a standout performer in Serie A, and now the Premier League’s biggest players are circling.
According to [La Gazzetta dello Sport](https://www.pressreader.com/italy/la-gazzetta-dello-sport/20250607/page/23), both Manchester clubs have already made formal approaches to Atalanta. The Italian side’s initial response has been firm: a flat rejection. Still, they’ve set a valuation of €40–50 million, and interest from England remains strong. Both United and City are said to be weighing up renewed offers in the coming weeks.
At 25, Ederson is entering his prime. Powerful, composed on the ball, and relentless in his work rate, he fits the mould of a modern midfielder who can contribute at both ends of the pitch. While Liverpool have also been loosely linked, the race currently looks to be between the two Manchester rivals. As the summer unfolds, Ederson could well become the subject of a fierce tug-of-war—and Atalanta know they hold a prized asset.
In Manchester United’s case, the question isn’t whether they need Ederson, it’s how much they need him. Last season under Rúben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, midfield proved a glaring weakness. Casemiro’s form dipped alarmingly, while Ugarte struggled to find consistency. That’s precisely where Ederson could slot in. His ability to press high, cover ground, and play vertical passes, simple but incisive, makes him an ideal fit for the double pivot.
Physically equipped for the demands of the Premier League, the Brazilian also brings composure and tempo. He may not be a flashy passer, but he knows when to accelerate the game and when to slow it down, qualities that are invaluable in a system like Amorim’s.
With no European football on offer, United would need to sell him the project, offering guaranteed minutes and a central role. If they can do that, Ederson might seriously consider the move. The Premier League remains a major draw, even without Champions League lights.
But should United prioritise this deal above all else? Arguably, yes. He’s young, has European pedigree, and still has room to grow. Yet there’s another side to this. If Atalanta stick to a price north of £50 million, can United afford to commit that much to one position when other areas, centre-back, right-back, and a goalscoring winger, also require urgent investment? If they hesitate or fail to persuade the player, Manchester City, with Champions League football and a more stable setup, could swoop in and close the deal. And once again, United risk being left empty-handed in the race for a key midfield solution.