Manchester United’s midfield rebuild is close to another major step, with Ederson expected to travel to England for the second part of his medical.
The Atalanta midfielder has waited for the deal to move again after Brazil’s World Cup campaign delayed the final stages. That pause now looks close to ending.
talkSPORT reports that United have agreed a £38.8m deal for Ederson, with the package made up of £35m plus £3.8m in add-ons. The report adds that he is set to sign a four-year contract, with the option of a further season.
United already completed the first part of the medical in the United States. The club now want a more detailed second stage in England before they sign off the transfer.
This is not a collapse. It is process. United have kept the deal alive and expect to complete it once Ederson clears the final checks.
ReadManUtd has already covered how United agreed a £50m deal for Andrey Santos after Chelsea gave the midfielder permission for a medical. Ederson would give Michael Carrick the second part of a midfield rebuild that has needed pace all summer.
Why Ederson Fits Manchester United
Ederson gives United something different from Santos.
The Brazilian has built his reputation at Atalanta as a strong, mobile and disciplined midfielder. He covers ground, protects the defence and gives his team a physical base in central areas.
Carrick has needed that profile. United have too often lacked control without the ball and power through midfield. Ederson should help address both issues.
The fee also sits in a sensible range. At £35m plus add-ons, United are not buying a global superstar. They are paying for a reliable age profile, Serie A experience and a player who can step straight into a demanding role.
There is still some caution. United want the medical completed before they announce anything, and that is normal given the size of the deal. But the main terms appear settled.
What It Means For Carrick’s Rebuild
United’s midfield picture now looks far clearer than it did a few weeks ago.
Santos brings energy, ball-carrying and upside. Ederson brings structure, defensive work and experience. Together, they would give Carrick a younger and more athletic platform.
That also helps soften the failure to land bigger-name targets. ReadManUtd has already looked at how Aurelien Tchouameni’s Real Madrid stance closed one route for United. Ederson is not the same marquee signing, but he may be a cleaner fit for the squad.
United still need balance. Two midfielders do not fix every issue, and Carrick will need time to shape the pair into his system.
But this feels like proper squad-building. United have targeted players with clear roles, manageable wages and room to contribute beyond one season.
The second medical is now the final hurdle. If Ederson passes it, United will have another important midfield deal ready to complete before pre-season gathers pace.
