Manchester United are intensifying their search for a midfield overhaul, with Atalanta's Brazilian midfielder Éderson emerging as a prime candidate to fill the void left by Casemiro's expected summer exit. Sources indicate the 26-year-old is valued between €40m and €50m (£35m-£45m), and United's director of football, Jason Wilcox, is a known admirer of the player.
According to The Guardian, Éderson has been identified as a key target as United look to reshape their engine room. The club are determined to sign two new midfielders this summer, with Casemiro's departure seen as inevitable after a season of diminished returns.
Éderson's Rise to Prominence
Éderson joined Atalanta from Salernitana in January 2022, having previously played for Cruzeiro, Corinthians, and Fortaleza in Brazil. His dynamic box-to-box style has caught the eye in Serie A, and he made his Brazil debut in a friendly against Mexico in June 2024. He has since earned three caps, the most recent in a 4-1 loss to Argentina in March 2025.
United's Midfield Shortlist
Éderson is not the only name on United's radar. The club's list of targets also includes:
- Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid) – valued at around £70m
- Carlos Baleba (Brighton) – valued at around £50m
- Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) – at least £60m
- Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) – starting at £100m
Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte, signed for £51m last summer, has rarely featured this season and could be sold or loaned out in the summer, further underscoring the need for reinforcements.
Key Stats: Éderson (Atalanta) – 26 years old | Brazil international | 3 caps | Contract until June 2027 | Valued at €40-50m
United's pursuit of Éderson comes as they prepare to host Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday night, a match that could have implications for their European ambitions.
Key Takeaways
- Manchester United have identified Atalanta's Éderson as a primary target to replace Casemiro.
- The Brazilian midfielder is valued at €40-50m (£35-45m) and has three senior caps for Brazil.
- United are also monitoring Tchouaméni, Baleba, Wharton, and Anderson as alternative options.
- Manuel Ugarte may be sold or loaned out after a disappointing first season at Old Trafford.
- United aim to sign two new midfielders in the summer transfer window.
For more on Manchester United's transfer plans, check out our coverage of Manchester United and the Premier League.
