Manchester United are reportedly making progress in talks with Atalanta for Ederson, although negotiations are not as advanced as some reports claim. United are looking to sign at least two midfielders this summer, and Ederson is a player of interest.
Ederson: A Potential Carrick Signing
Ederson could become Michael Carrick’s first signing if talks progress. The 26-year-old has made 180 appearances for Atalanta. He has not been selected for Brazil’s squad for the World Cup. He can play as a deep-lying midfielder or as a No.8 and has a reputation for his running power, averaging 10.6km per game in the Champions League this season.
Ederson’s potential arrival would not alter United’s plans to sign a marquee midfielder to replace Casemiro. United chiefs have earmarked significant investment to sign Casemiro’s successor.
Competition for Elliot Anderson
Elliot Anderson is reportedly at the top of United’s midfielder shortlist. Nottingham Forest manager Vitor Pereira has admitted Anderson could be sold. However, United are set to face stiff competition from Manchester City for his signature.
United will not be drawn into a bidding war with City. They remain interested in signing the England international, who impressed when he visited Old Trafford as Forest lost 3-2 earlier in the month.
Other Midfield Options
Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni is seen as a dream midfield signing. However, Madrid are expected to keep the Frenchman for Jose Mourinho’s first season back at the Bernabeu.
United are monitoring Mateus Fernandes’ situation at West Ham. Fernandes is set to leave the Hammers after their relegation to the second tier. It remains to be seen whether United would look to sign Ederson, a marquee midfielder and Fernandes this summer.
Strengthening Other Areas of the Squad
The other areas of the squad that could be strengthened are left wing and left-back. United were interested in signing Antoine Semenyo in the January window before he signed for City. Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho are leaving, so United are considering options in the market.
RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande is on the club’s radar. However, a fee of £85m has been mentioned, which would not be realistic for United in a summer when a marquee midfield signing is the priority.
Patrick Dorgu’s relocation to the left wing has come into the equation. Dorgu was in sparkling form on the wing before he picked up an injury in January, and he looked very good on Sunday in his first start since said injury.
United could decide to go into next season with Matheus Cunha – who has sometimes struggled to offer width – and Dorgu on the left flank if Carrick and his staff believe that should be his permanent position.
Luke Shaw has started every Premier League game this season, but United have played their fewest matches in a campaign.