Manchester United are rapidly moving closer to completing their first signing of the 2026 summer transfer window.
Despite the summer window still being three weeks away from officially opening, INEOS already appear eager to accelerate their rebuild plans as quickly as possible.
According to a reliable report, Man United have sent a delegation in Italy to discuss a potential deal with Atalanta for Ederson.
The expectation is that an agreement will be reached soon between all parties.
Ederson is adamant about moving to Old Trafford and has rejected every other offer.
He has also told his agent that he only wants to move to Man United.
Several reports have suggested the Red Devils may need to submit an offer between £30 million and £40 million to secure his signature.
With only one year remaining on his contract in Italy, United currently appear to hold a strong negotiating advantage in discussions with Atalanta.
Ederson may not arrive with the glamour or hype of a blockbuster signing, but he would still represent a clear upgrade on Manuel Ugarte.
The Uruguayan midfielder is widely expected to leave Old Trafford this summer after struggling to adapt to the intensity and demands of Premier League football.
Not every signing in a rebuild has to be a major statement acquisition, especially with United planning multiple midfield additions this summer.
Ederson is a technically adept midfielder and could prove to be a solid rotational option.
His relentless work-rate and ability to recycle possession quickly could make him an ideal partner for Kobbie Mainoo.
We believe Ederson could become the first signing of the new Michael Carrick era at Old Trafford.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com