Manchester United are reportedly close to securing the signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson as they prepare for their return to the UEFA Champions League next season. The 26-year-old Brazilian has been linked with a move to Old Trafford for some time, and sources indicate that negotiations have advanced significantly.

The club is moving swiftly to reinforce its midfield ahead of the upcoming campaign, following their third-place finish in the Premier League last season. This result marked a notable recovery after Manchester United’s struggles the previous year, which included a 15th-place league finish and a loss in the Europa League final.

Michael Carrick, who was confirmed to continue as Manchester United’s head coach just before the club’s final Premier League match against Brighton, is expected to have a key role in shaping the team moving forward. Ederson is poised to become the first signing under Carrick’s brief managerial reign, with an anticipated transfer fee reported to be as high as £38 million ($51.1 million).

The need to fortify the midfield is particularly pressing given the impending departure of Casemiro, who will leave the club at the end of his current contract in June. In addition to Ederson, Manchester United have reportedly considered other midfield options, including Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni. The club has also shown interest in Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, although Anderson is believed to prefer a move to local rivals Manchester City.

Chief Executive Omar Berrada has attributed the club’s recent on-field resurgence as a significant factor in Manchester United’s improved financial position, alongside ongoing business transformation efforts. As the summer transfer window approaches, Manchester United appear poised for a busy period of activity aimed at strengthening the squad for their Champions League campaign and domestic pursuits.