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Manchester United’s summer transfer ambitions are taking shape, with Ederson, the Atalanta midfielder, emerging as a key figure in their plans. The Brazilian has made headlines with his performance in Serie A, contributing six goals and an assist over 30 games. His prowess on the field has not only caught the eye of United but also Tottenham, amidst speculation around his future.
With the midfield seemingly an area for reinforcement, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding Casemiro and the probable return of Sofyan Amrabat to Fiorentina, United’s strategy is in the spotlight. Frenkie de Jong, previously linked with a move to Old Trafford, remains a potential option. Nevertheless, his high transfer valuation by Barcelona, reportedly around €100m (£85.5m), coupled with a history of protracted negotiations, has led United, under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s guidance, to consider alternatives.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is poised to financially back United manager Ten Hag in strengthening the squad across multiple positions, including defense, midfield, forward, and potentially a winger. This comes amid doubts over the future contributions of Jadon Sancho, Facundo Pellistri, and Antony.
AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders and Ederson have been identified as viable midfield options, with the latter reportedly available for a more palatable €40m to €45m (£34.2m to £38.5m). This valuation, as suggested, offers better value for United, especially when juxtaposed with de Jong’s steep asking price.
Now the 24-year-old player has responded to those rumours, admitting he is enjoying his football this season.
“I think this time, because it was perhaps one of the best moments of my career, and being at Atalanta today, it really boosted me,” Ederson told Globo Esporte.
“It’s something players talk about a lot, but it’s something I really learned, to leave it to my agents and then pass it on to me.
Otherwise, you are creating unnecessary expectations.”
Asked again about rumours linking him to the likes of Barcelona, Tottenham and Manchester United, Ederson continued: “I don’t know how true it was. I never actually asked. If it were something very, very concrete, then the club would pass it on to us, because we have a good relationship with them.
“What I said was that I wanted to focus on this moment, because it’s a very important moment for the club, it’s being very good for me too.”
United’s board, with Ratcliffe’s concurrence, perceives Ederson’s potential acquisition as a financially prudent alternative, reflecting a strategic shift in their transfer dealings. While PSG is prepared to engage Barcelona with an offer for de Jong, United’s focus seems to have pivoted towards securing talent that promises both performance and financial viability. Ederson’s acknowledgment of the transfer rumors, amidst enjoying his current form, adds an intriguing layer to United’s summer transfer saga.
