Manchester United are on the verge of completing their first signing of the summer transfer window, with Ederson set to undergo a medical after Brazil's elimination from the World Cup. The 26-year-old midfielder has been the subject of a £38 million agreement between United and Atalanta reached at the beginning of June, with personal terms on a contract until 2030 already in place.
Ederson's World Cup Participation Delays Move
Ederson's transfer was always scheduled to be finalised in July, but his late call-up to Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad for the World Cup delayed the process. The midfielder made two substitute appearances during the tournament, including a brief cameo in Brazil's 2-1 round-of-16 loss to Norway. With Brazil now out of the competition, Ederson is free to focus on his club future.
Reports from Italy indicate that Ederson is set to travel to the United Kingdom to complete the final part of his medical, having already undergone initial checks while with Brazil in the United States. No specific timeframe has been set, as the player is expected to take a short break before linking up with his new teammates at Old Trafford.
Carrick's First Signing as Permanent Manager
Ederson was identified by United manager Michael Carrick and director of football Jason Wilcox as a replacement for Casemiro, who recently left the club upon the expiry of his contract. This transfer marks Carrick's first signing since being named permanent manager in May and signals the start of a crucial summer for the Red Devils.
With Casemiro out and Manuel Ugarte expected to miss most of the 2026-27 season after suffering a serious knee injury at the World Cup, United are in urgent need of midfield reinforcements. The club had previously lost the race for £116 million-rated Elliot Anderson to Manchester City and saw alternative target Matheus Fernandes snatched away by Tottenham, who paid West Ham a fixed £85 million for his signature.
Further Transfer Targets
United's midfield shortlist also includes Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni, Chelsea's Andrey Santos, and Bournemouth youngster Alex Scott. Beyond midfield, the club is looking to strengthen in several other positions, including a backup goalkeeper, left-back, left winger, striker, and potentially a third midfielder.
The Red Devils open their Premier League campaign away at newly-promoted Hull City before hosting Ipswich Town, who also gained promotion from the Championship. Carrick will be hoping to have his new signings integrated quickly as United aim to improve on last season's performance.
