While journalist Alfredo Pedullà recently claimed that Manchester United had re-established contact with Atalanta over their midfielder Ederson, fresh developments suggest the move may not be straightforward.
According to Tutto Atalanta, Atalanta is again determined to resist United’s approach for the Brazilian midfielder.
Last summer, before United secured Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain in a £42.2 million deal, the club had bid for Ederson, only for the offer to be rejected.
United initially offered the Bergamo side £42 million for their number 13, but Atalanta deemed the figure insufficient to sanction his departure.
Ugarte has shown flashes of quality, particularly with his physicality and ability to win back possession, but his struggles on the ball have been evident.
The Uruguayan has found it challenging to dictate play, and the high tempo of the Premier League has exposed his weaknesses, most recently in an error that led to West Ham United’s goal in United’s 0-2 defeat to the Hammers last weekend.
Atalanta will not let Ederson go without a big offer
Casemiro’s resurgence in recent months has eased some of the pressure on Ugarte, yet with Ruben Amorim’s squad facing heavy criticism, a long-term midfield solution is becoming increasingly necessary.
United see Ederson as the player who will transform their engine room under Amorim, but securing his signature may not be easy.
Tutto Atalanta report that it will take more than the £42 million United offered last summer to seal the deal. Only an irresistible offer will get the deal over the line.
The Italian publication have highlighted that Ederson is under contract with Atalanta until 2027, meaning the club is in no rush to cash in.
He remains a fundamental part of their project, and if United are serious about signing him, they may have to break the bank.
Are United desperate enough to make the deal happen this summer? If so, INEOS will have little choice but to dig deep into their pockets, as the outlet emphasised how tough Atalanta are during negotiations.
With a pressing need to overhaul United’s attack, supporters will have to wait and see whether enough funds remain for a headline-making swoop for Ederson.
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Daniel Onguko
Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
