Manchester United are moving swiftly in their bid to secure their first major signing of the summer transfer window, with reports suggesting that Atalanta midfielder Ederson has agreed to personal terms with the club. The Brazilian star is believed to have set his sights on a move to Old Trafford, pausing discussions with other interested teams to prioritise joining the Red Devils.

Breakthrough in personal terms with Manchester United

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United’s long-standing pursuit of midfield reinforcements has taken a significant step forward after Ederson agreed to personal terms. The 26-year-old has been on United’s radar for an extended period, and the allure of playing in the Premier League appears to have convinced him to focus his future on a move to Manchester rather than considering offers from other European clubs.

Romano further reported that the midfielder has “paused all talks with other clubs” since last week, choosing to concentrate exclusively on joining United. This move places the responsibility squarely on Manchester United’s management to finalise an agreement with Atalanta regarding the financial aspects of the transfer.

Transfer negotiations nearing completion

With personal terms now settled, the final hurdle remains the agreement between the two clubs on the transfer fee structure. Discussions have been ongoing for weeks over a deal worth around €45 million (£39 million/$52 million), and both parties are eager to reach a resolution soon. The transfer is expected to follow a similar model to the Rasmus Hojlund deal, featuring a substantial base fee complemented by performance-related bonuses.

Reports from Italy indicate that Atalanta are ready to approve Ederson’s departure after missing out on qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League. For the Bergamo-based club, selling one of their key midfielders for a sum exceeding £39 million would provide crucial funds to reinvest in strengthening their squad during the off-season.

Palladino acknowledges ongoing negotiations

Speculation surrounding Ederson’s future intensified over the weekend when he was omitted from Atalanta’s starting lineup for their final Serie A match. Following the 1-1 draw with Fiorentina, Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino openly addressed the situation, stating, “Ederson didn’t play today because there’s a concrete negotiation with a top club.” Although Palladino did not name Manchester United directly, Ederson’s agreement with the English giants leaves little doubt about his likely destination.

Carrick closing in on a key signing

Should the deal be completed, it would represent a major success for Michael Carrick, who was recently confirmed as Manchester United’s permanent manager. Having guided the team back into the Champions League, Carrick is eager to strengthen his midfield with a player who offers both defensive solidity and relentless pressing ability. Ederson’s attributes are viewed as a perfect fit for the high-intensity style the former United midfielder has been implementing.

Ederson, who made 41 appearances across all competitions in the 2023–24 season, has earned praise as one of Serie A’s most consistent performers. His potential arrival would underline Manchester United’s ambition to re-establish themselves among Europe’s elite, providing Carrick with a dependable ball-winner to anchor the midfield as the club prepares for its Champions League return.