Manchester United are poised to complete their first signing of the summer transfer window as Brazil midfielder Ederson undergoes a medical ahead of his move from Atalanta. The 26-year-old was scheduled for a medical on Sunday in the United States, where he is participating in the 2026 World Cup with Brazil, and the deal can now be finalized with the window officially open.
Ederson Set to Become First New Signing
Michael Carrick's side, who secured third place in the 2025/26 Premier League, are expected to be active this summer. Casemiro is among three senior players leaving on free transfers when their contracts expire on 30 June, alongside Tyrell Malacia and Jadon Sancho. Ederson is anticipated to fill the void left by Casemiro, serving as his long-term successor at Old Trafford.
The Atalanta star will cost an initial £35 million, with reports from ESPN suggesting an agreement has been reached to bring him to Manchester. Corriere dello Sport subsequently reported that the player was penciled in for a medical while in the US for the World Cup, allowing the signing to be sealed today.
Midfield Reinforcements
Ederson is expected to be one of at least two new central midfielders arriving this summer, strengthening an area where depth was notably inadequate last season. The Brazilian's arrival follows a World Cup campaign with his national team, having been called up as cover for the injured Wesley just days before the tournament began.
The sub-£40 million outlay for Ederson could help United secure funds for a second midfield acquisition. West Ham are reportedly seeking up to £85 million for Portugal international Mateus Fernandes, though that figure may be negotiable. Fernandes impressed for the Hammers during their relegation season, but an initial offer from United is likely to fall short of the asking price.
Paris Saint-Germain are also understood to be interested in Fernandes, potentially complicating United's pursuit. The former Southampton star could reunite with compatriots Joao Neves and Vitinha in Paris.
Ugarte's Future Uncertain
With two new additions in midfield, coupled with Kobbie Mainoo's revival under Carrick, the prospects for Manuel Ugarte appear bleak. The Uruguayan has struggled to settle at Old Trafford and seems further from a regular starting spot than ever before. Having arrived for an initial £42 million in 2024, he played fewer than 1,000 Premier League minutes last season, suggesting his future lies away from the club.
Ugarte has three years remaining on his contract, so there is no immediate pressure to sell, but United may be eager to recoup funds. The club's transfer activity is set to continue as they look to build on their third-place finish.
