United’s red-hot pursuit of “ferocious” Brazilian behemoth under threat as CL rival eyes revenge on INEOS – report

Manchester United risk missing out on Ederson as Newcastle plot a shock raid for the Atalanta enforcer after crisis strikes at St James’ Park, according to the latest report. Long-term Target Ederson has been a long-term target for the Red Devils as the Brazil international has established himself as one of the best midfielders in Serie A over the past few years. Despite being deployed in a variety of roles for Atalanta, the 26-year-old has shone regardless of the system, offering a potent pairing of physical and technical attributes at the heart of La Dea‘s midfield. At one point last year, amid United’s growing interest, the Italian side were demanding  €75 million to prise Ederson from Bergamo – a price INEOS considered excessive.  However, this price is now understood to have plummeted after United’s hierarchy conducted “fresh checks” earlier this month, with an offer “under €40m” now thought to be sufficient. The club are reluctant to spend money this month unless it’s for a player who would be targeted in the summer regardless, as demonstrated by the failed pursuit of Antoine Semenyo over Christmas. The first-choice options for the midfield are Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton, though all three are likely to cost up to £100m and are not available in January. As such, a cheaper alternative on the continent – like a Brazilian behemoth from Serie A – would make sense as a complement to one of these targets, with the departure of Casemiro creating the need for two signings in midfield.  Magpies ready to strike first Newcastle are ready to jump the queue for Ederson, however, with Eddie Howe’s engine room has been decimated by injuries, according to TEAMtalk. Bruno Guimaraes, the club captain and most influential player, is currently out with an injury, while Joelinton and Sandro Tonali picked up knocks in the 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa. Interestingly, Newcastle are yet to win a match without Guimaraes since his arrival at St James’ Park four years ago, picking up just five points from the nine games he’s missed. It’s clear, therefore, why the Magpies are “strongly considering” a move for Ederson – a midfielder, like United, who they have been tracking for many years.  TEAMtalk reveals La Liga heavyweight Atletico Madrid are currently leading the race for the Brazilian, with Atalanta “braced for offers, and with multiple clubs circling, the situation is expected to move quickly.” If INEOS do not want to miss out on one of Europe’s best midfielders not already plying his trade for an elite club, they will have to move quickly and decisively before next week’s deadline – or risk facing him in a black and white shirt in March. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.