Manchester United is on the verge of securing their first signing of the summer, with a deal for Éderson from Atalanta nearing completion. Reports indicate that only minor details regarding payment structures remain to be finalized, with the total package expected to be just under €45 million. Sky Sports has detailed the breakdown as €40.5 million upfront, along with €3.5 million in potential add-ons. United finds themselves in a favorable negotiating position, as the 26-year-old midfielder is in the final year of his contract and currently valued at €40 million on Transfermarkt.

Strong Ties and Future Prospects

Manchester United and Atalanta have established a solid relationship through previous negotiations involving players like Amad Diallo and Rasmus Højlund, making it likely that a full agreement will soon be reached. Contract terms are expected to be straightforward, as Éderson is on a modest salary in Serie A and is eager to join Old Trafford. United has been monitoring Éderson for over two years and has prioritized adding at least two central midfielders this summer, with a potential third if Manuel Ugarte is sold.

Éderson's Role and Reputation

The departure of Casemiro has created a gap in United’s midfield, but Éderson may not be the marquee signing that INEOS aims to make in this area. While he may not be a guaranteed starter under manager Michael Carrick, he is expected to provide valuable depth alongside Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and another new signing. Since joining Atalanta from Salernitana in 2022, Éderson has made 180 appearances and played a crucial role in their Europa League victory in 2024. He was absent from Atalanta's final Serie A match against Fiorentina due to ongoing negotiations with United.

Éderson is highly regarded in Italy, with fans of top Serie A clubs expressing interest in having him on their teams. His strengths include versatility, stamina, tactical intelligence, and the ability to make effective decisions on the pitch. Although he is not known for being a prolific scorer, he contributes significantly in various roles, including defensive, box-to-box, and attacking midfield positions. His performance alongside Ademola Lookman was instrumental in Atalanta’s recent successes.