Éderson is set to become Michael Carrick’s first signing as United reshape midfield

Manchester United have taken a major step in their summer rebuild after reaching an agreement to sign Éderson from Atalanta in a deal worth an initial £35 million.

The transfer is expected to make the Brazilian midfielder the first signing of the Michael Carrick era, marking the beginning of a significant overhaul at Old Trafford following a disappointing campaign.

United have reportedly agreed to pay an initial fee of €40.5 million, with performance related add ons potentially taking the total package to €45 million, equivalent to around £38.8 million.

Personal terms have already been agreed between the player and the club. Éderson is expected to sign a contract running until June 2030, with the option of an additional year.

Although the summer transfer window officially opens on 15 June, the move is expected to be finalised early next month once the midfielder completes his medical examinations.

The 26 year old has been identified as a key target by Carrick and United’s director of football Jason Wilcox.

Club officials view him as a direct replacement for Casemiro, whose departure following the expiry of his contract has left a significant gap in United’s midfield.

Éderson has built a reputation in Italy as one of the most energetic and reliable midfielders in Serie A.

Primarily operating as a holding midfielder, he combines defensive awareness with the ability to drive forward from deep positions. His ability to read the game, break up attacks and contribute in both penalty areas has made him one of Atalanta’s most important players in recent seasons.

United believe those qualities fit perfectly into Carrick’s plans.

The signing could also have implications for the future of Manuel Ugarte.

Despite arriving from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported £51 million in 2024, Ugarte struggled to establish himself as a regular starter last season. Reports suggest the midfielder could now be made available for either a loan move or permanent transfer.

While Éderson is set to become the first arrival, United’s recruitment drive is far from finished.

Carrick is reportedly determined to strengthen the midfield further and several high profile names remain under consideration.

Among the players being monitored is Aurélien Tchouaméni of Real Madrid, although any deal could cost around £70 million.

United are also interested in Carlos Baleba of Brighton & Hove Albion, who is valued at approximately £50 million.

Other targets include Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace, whose price tag is believed to exceed £60 million.

Perhaps the most expensive option on the list is Elliot Anderson. The Nottingham Forest midfielder could reportedly command a fee of at least £100 million and is also believed to favour a move to Manchester City.

For now, however, United’s focus remains firmly on completing Éderson’s arrival.

The Brazilian joined Atalanta in January 2022 after spells with Cruzeiro, Corinthians, Fortaleza and Salernitana. Since then, he has developed into one of the most consistent midfielders in Italian football.

Although he was included in an initial provisional squad by Carlo Ancelotti before the World Cup, he did not make the final selection. Nevertheless, he already has three international appearances for Brazil and remains highly regarded within the national team setup.

As Carrick begins shaping his vision for Manchester United, Éderson appears set to become the first cornerstone of a new era at Old Trafford.