Manchester United are preparing for a significant midfield overhaul ahead of the new season, with Atalanta midfielder Ederson dos Santos emerging as one of the club’s top transfer priorities during the upcoming summer window.
Following a strong end to the Premier League campaign under interim manager Michael Carrick, United have successfully secured qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League, a development that has strengthened both the club’s financial position and its attractiveness to elite players across Europe.
With Champions League football returning to Old Trafford, the club’s hierarchy is now focused on rebuilding key areas of the squad, and midfield has been identified as the most urgent department requiring reinforcement.
Carrick and the recruitment team are believed to be working closely together to identify players capable of fitting into the manager’s demanding tactical philosophy, which places heavy emphasis on intensity, positional discipline, pressing, and quick transitions.
Among the names being heavily considered is Brazilian midfielder Ederson, who has enjoyed another excellent campaign with Atalanta in Serie A.
Over the past two seasons, the 26-year-old has developed into one of the most dependable and complete midfielders in Italian football.
His energetic style, ability to recover possession, physical strength, and composure in possession have attracted interest from several major European clubs, but Manchester United are now reportedly leading the race for his signature.
Sources close to the situation suggest that Ederson would be open to making the switch to the Premier League, with personal terms unlikely to become a major stumbling block if negotiations between the two clubs progress positively.
Although no formal agreement has yet been finalized, discussions behind the scenes are expected to intensify in the coming weeks as United accelerate plans for their summer rebuild.
Since arriving at Atalanta from Salernitana in 2022, Ederson has become a vital part of Gian Piero Gasperini’s tactical setup. His ability to operate effectively in multiple midfield roles has made him invaluable for the Italian side.
Whether deployed as a defensive midfielder, a box-to-box runner, or a deep-lying playmaker, the Brazilian has consistently delivered high-level performances.
His work rate and versatility are viewed as major reasons why Manchester United see him as an ideal addition to Carrick’s evolving squad.
Despite primarily playing in a deeper midfield role, Ederson has also contributed offensively.
He has scored 15 goals in 178 appearances for Atalanta in all competitions, demonstrating his willingness to support attacks and arrive in dangerous areas when needed.
United believe this balance between defensive discipline and attacking contribution would significantly improve the structure of their midfield.
The club is expected to undergo major changes in the center of the pitch this summer. Questions continue to surround the futures of senior midfielders such as Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, while the coaching staff are also carefully managing the development of Kobbie Mainoo, who has become one of the brightest performers during Carrick’s tenure.
Mainoo has flourished in a more advanced role recently, benefiting from increased freedom on the ball and greater responsibility in attacking phases.
The potential signing of Ederson is viewed internally as a move that could perfectly complement Mainoo’s strengths.
By providing defensive stability and physical coverage, the Brazilian would allow younger creative players more freedom to influence matches without compromising balance in midfield.
Carrick has repeatedly emphasized the need for athleticism, energy, and tactical intelligence since taking charge at Old Trafford.
Training sessions under the former midfielder have reportedly become shorter but far more intense, with players expected to press aggressively and maintain concentration in transitional moments.
Recruitment plans appear to reflect those ideas, with the club prioritizing multifunctional players rather than specialists limited to one area of the game.
Manchester United have monitored several midfield targets in recent months, including Sandro Tonali, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Adam Wharton.
However, financial challenges and fierce competition from rival clubs have complicated those pursuits. In comparison, Ederson is viewed as a more realistic and attainable option while still offering top-level quality.
Reports from transfer insiders suggest Atalanta could demand a fee between £35 million and £43 million for the midfielder.
Following qualification for the Champions League, United are believed to consider that valuation reasonable, especially if they can generate additional funds through player sales during the summer transfer window.
Several departures are expected at Old Trafford as part of the restructuring process. Uncertainty remains surrounding the futures of a number of squad members, including players currently out on loan and others who have struggled for consistent playing time throughout the season.
The club’s strategy is expected to focus more on quality additions than mass recruitment, but strengthening midfield remains the clearest priority.
United’s coaching staff reportedly believe Ederson possesses the physical and technical qualities needed to adapt quickly to English football.
His experience in Atalanta’s demanding tactical system, which requires constant movement and aggressive pressing both in and out of possession, is seen as ideal preparation for the Premier League.
Although negotiations are still in the early stages, the increasing links between Manchester United and Ederson highlight the club’s determination to build a stronger, more balanced midfield capable of competing at the highest level domestically and in Europe.
With Carrick playing a growing role in shaping the squad’s future, the transfer could become one of the defining moves of United’s summer rebuild ahead of the 2026/27 season.
