Manchester United could be on the verge of securing their first signing under the newly confirmed head coach Michael Carrick. The Red Devils officially announced on Friday that Carrick has agreed to a contract extension until 2028, ending weeks of speculation about his future at Old Trafford.
With the summer transfer window approaching, United have identified midfield reinforcements as a top priority. The departure of Casemiro, following this weekend's match against Brighton, has further emphasised the need to strengthen the centre of the park.
Reports earlier this week indicated that United have initiated talks with Atalanta regarding a potential deal for Brazilian midfielder Ederson. The Serie A side is reportedly seeking a fee of £34.5 million, with an additional £4.3 million in performance-related add-ons.
Speculation surrounding Ederson's future intensified after he was an unused substitute in Atalanta's 1-1 draw with Fiorentina on Friday night. Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino addressed the situation, stopping short of naming United but confirming that transfer activity was behind the decision.
Palladino stated: "Ederson out? It was a decision we agreed with the boy because there's something going on in the transfer market. The fact that such a player is being followed by such a big club should be a source of pride."
In addition to Ederson, United are also monitoring Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. The 23-year-old has impressed since his move from Newcastle United in 2024, establishing himself as one of the Premier League's top young midfield talents. Both Manchester United and Manchester City are tracking his progress, with Forest reportedly valuing him at £100 million.
Forest manager Vitor Pereira acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Anderson's future, saying: "The market is the market, everything can happen. The club wants to keep him playing for us for sure."
Pereira praised Anderson's talent, adding: "He has the talent to be one of the top of the top. He can score more goals and take more risks in the final third. He is young and will fly with big wings."
United face competition from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur for Anderson, but a two-way battle between the Manchester clubs is anticipated. As Carrick's tenure officially begins, the club's transfer strategy is set to take shape, with midfield reinforcements at the forefront of their plans.
