Manchester United have added Atalanta star Ederson to their shortlist as they attempt to sign a replacement for Casemiro. The former Real Madrid midfielder is due to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season when his contract expires, following arguably his most impressive season as a United player.
Extensive Shortlist
Given the task of replacing Casemiro, United chiefs have compiled an extensive list of candidates. Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, and Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni are all among those being eyed. Ederson has now emerged as another potential target, with the Brazilian looking likely to leave Atalanta.
Ederson, 26, is out of contract next summer and is valued at €40m-€50m (£35m-£45m). According to The Guardian, Jason Wilcox is an admirer of the midfielder and could pursue a move in the summer window.
Competition for Signature
United could face competition for his services, with Atletico Madrid also thought to be strongly interested. Speaking in February, Atletico's sporting director Mateu Alemany said: 'One more on the list of good players we have.'
United reportedly want to sign two new midfielders this summer, although much could depend on the future of Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguayan has struggled for form since his arrival from Paris Saint-Germain.
Carrick's View
Current United boss Michael Carrick has underlined the importance of adding to United's midfield ahead of next season, particularly given Casemiro's exit. Speaking earlier this season, he said: 'Yeah, well, listen, it's an important position. Not being biased, obviously, as being a midfielder, but I think it is an important position to try and tie everything together and you're connected to the whole team, and that's sometimes emotionally, a little bit mentally, and showing that composure and understanding of the game a little bit. Case has had a big influence within the group on that. So, something we're fully aware of moving forward, for sure.'
Casemiro joined United in a big-money move from Real Madrid in 2022 and has gone on to make 157 appearances, scoring 25 goals—eight of which have come this term. He could potentially make one of his final Old Trafford appearances on Monday evening when Carrick's side host Brentford, while Liverpool and Nottingham Forest are set to visit over the closing weeks of the campaign.
