The proposed transfer is expected to cost around £38 million, with sources indicating the structure of the agreement includes a guaranteed £35 million payment plus an additional £3 million in performance-related add-ons.
Club insiders believe a full agreement could be finalised before the end of the week as United intensify efforts to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season.
The growing speculation surrounding Ederson’s future was further fueled last week when Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino revealed the midfielder was left on the bench during the club’s draw against Fiorentina because of interest from what he described as a “major club.”
Before United’s late push, Ederson had appeared destined for a move to Atletico Madrid. However, the Spanish side’s reported decision to focus attention on Joao Gomes of Wolverhampton Wanderers opened the door for the Premier League giants to step in.
United are currently searching for a long-term replacement for Casemiro, whose future at Old Trafford remains uncertain amid growing expectations of a summer exit.
Despite progress in talks for Ederson, Manchester United are still believed to be assessing alternative midfield options. The club has continued background checks on Carlos Baleba of Brighton & Hove Albion and Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United.
Questions Remain Over Fit and Impact
While Ederson’s price tag may appear attractive compared to other elite midfield targets valued above £100 million, questions remain about whether the Brazilian possesses the qualities required to dominate in the Premier League.
Observers note that financial limitations under United’s current ownership structure — involving both INEOS and the Glazer family — have increased the club’s interest in players considered strong value in the market.
Statistically, Ederson has impressed defensively in Serie A this season, recording 59 tackles, 28 interceptions, and regaining possession 62 times in the defensive third. However, comparisons with Premier League midfielders suggest those figures would not rank among the league’s elite in England.
There are also concerns about his creativity and attacking contribution. The midfielder reportedly produced only two through balls all season and completed 371 passes in the final third — numbers that some critics argue are modest for a player expected to replace Casemiro, who managed significantly higher attacking metrics.
Interestingly, reaction among Atalanta supporters has been relatively calm despite the prospect of losing the Brazilian midfielder. Many fans reportedly appreciate his work rate and tactical discipline but believe the club could replace him effectively for a lower fee.
Some analysts within Italian football circles even view any transfer above £40 million as excellent business for Atalanta, especially given the club’s reputation for developing and reinvesting in emerging talent.