Man Utd closing in on 42m Ederson deal

Manchester United are in advanced talks to sign Atalanta’s Brazilian midfielder Ederson as a first summer signing, with a fee of about 48m euros likely for the 26-year-old. United officials have played down speculation and say no agreement is in place, with Ederson having 12 months remaining on his contract. The move aligns with United’s push to build on a third-placed finish under new head coach Michael Carrick. United still owe substantial outstanding transfer fees, forming most of the 482m in trade and other payables, highlighting financial work needed. The club aims to strengthen central midfield after Casemiro’s exit and uncertainty around Manuel Ugarte, targeting two or possibly three signings while avoiding expensive long contracts. Ederson has three full Brazil caps and has missed out on World Cup selection, and Atletico Madrid were previously linked. Another target, Mateus Fernandes, may be sold by West Ham this summer.

"Manchester United are in advanced talks to make Atalanta's Brazil midfielder Ederson their first summer signing. Multiple sources have told BBC Sport a deal is close to completion, with a fee of 48m euros (41.6m) likely for the 26-year-old. Senior United officials played down speculation and say there is still no agreement for Ederson, who has 12 months left on his contract."

"On the day they announced third-quarter profits of 37.7m for the nine months to 31 March - and chief executive Omar Berrada said he was "very positive about the club's progress" - it is clear United are eager to build on their unexpected third-placed finish under new head coach Michael Carrick. United do still owe a huge amount in outstanding transfer fees, which makes up the vast majority of the 482m owing in 'trade and other payables', and underlines the work needed to get their finances in order."

"But they are determined to be competitive in the transfer market, while pledging not to fall into the trap of offering expensive long contracts as they have in the past. United are prioritising strengthening central midfield this summer after the exit of Casemiro and uncertainty over Manuel Ugarte's future. Ideally, they would like to make two, or possibility three, signings in that area, although it appears first choice Elliot Anderson would prefer to join Manchester City."

"While it is not unknown for United to negotiate with more than one target before making a final decision, they appear to have opted to move early for Ederson, who has three full Brazil caps but has missed out on World Cup selection. Atletico Madrid were thought to be keen on the player, who has spent the past four and a half years in Serie A - initially with Salernitana - but the Spanish side have plumped for Wolves' Joao Gomes instead."

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