Manchester United are likely to reinforce their midfield department with more than one signing next year.
The Red Devils were heavily linked with multiple midfielders during last summer’s transfer window, but nothing materialised in the end. The club could seek a new solution this winter.
Atalanta star Ederson has been a long-term target for United. He could be signed for a bargain fee of £26 million to £31 million with his contract expiring in June 2027, according to his agent Andre Cury.
The 26-year-old has been one of Serie A’s best midfielders. Atalanta have had a poor start in Serie A this term, but Ederson has still impressed for the Bergamo outfit.
He has completed 91 percent of his passes with an average of four duels and two tackles won. He has also managed five recoveries per outing, losing possession less than seven times per game.
Ederson has likewise caught the eye with his Champions League displays. He was brilliant against Chelsea in yesterday’s 2-1 win. He dominated proceedings in the centre of the park, winning seven duels.
The Brazilian also made five recoveries with two take-ons and completed 45 out of 54 passes made.
Ederson had the better of Moises Caicedo on multiple occasions. In our view, he would be an ideal bargain signing this winter and would provide an upgrade on Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte in the number six role.
The Atalanta ace obviously has a higher work rate and mobility than Casemiro. He is also better at decision-making compared to Ugarte, who has been caught out of position at times.
Casemiro (contract expires on June 30) and Ugarte could be on the move at the end of the campaign. With Ederson reportedly available for £26-31m, United may have to pursue a deal this winter to avoid missing out on his services.
They could still secure another big-money midfield signing next summer after recouping funds from Ugarte’s sale and freeing up Casemiro’s wages. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton has recently jumped to the top of the club’s wishlist.
Stats from Sofascore.com