According to Metro, Manchester United are considering a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson but will only advance with this option if their pursuit of Manuel Ugarte proves unsuccessful.
United have been negotiating with Ugarte throughout the summer and have reached an agreement on personal terms with the Uruguayan. However, Paris Saint-Germain is steadfast in their €70 million (£58.8m) valuation of Ugarte, a figure Manchester United is reluctant to meet.
While United continues to work on securing Ugarte, they are also exploring alternatives, with Ederson high on their list. According to Spanish publication AS, Manchester United is "in constant talks with all parties" about a potential deal for the 25-year-old and is ready to make a move if they cannot finalize the Ugarte transfer.
Ederson joined Atalanta from Salernitana in 2022 and has been a regular starter, making 53 appearances and scoring seven goals last season. His performance contributed to Atalanta's Europa League victory.
Atalanta is reportedly determined to retain Ederson, setting his price at €60 million (£51.1m), which makes him a similarly expensive option to Ugarte if that valuation remains.
United faces competition for Ederson from several other clubs, including Aston Villa, Juventus, and Atletico Madrid. Each of these clubs is interested in bolstering their midfield with the Brazilian.
Additionally, Manchester United has been active in the transfer market this summer, investing approximately £140 million in new signings such as Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui. Given their financial constraints and the Profit and Sustainability Rules, United may be more inclined to explore loan deals or lower-cost options as the window progresses.
In a recent interview with AS, Ederson expressed his satisfaction at Atalanta, saying, "I am very happy at Atalanta. I have just won a big title, I am very well integrated. My future is something that does not worry me." His contentment at the club could impact potential negotiations, as Atalanta will likely be reluctant to sell the key player.
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