United Close in on Éderson as Atalanta Confirm Giuntoli Move
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup heating up across North America, Manchester United are closing in on a major midfield coup — securing Atalanta’s Éderson in a deal now edging towards completion.
The breakthrough came after Atalanta confirmed the appointment of Cristiano Giuntoli, a move that has unlocked more productive talks between the clubs. The transfer, long in the works, is now moving at pace, with United expected to pay a fee of around £37–38 million, structured with guaranteed payments and additional incentives.
For Éderson, the switch to Old Trafford represents his clear ambition. Having been left out of Brazil’s World Cup squad, the midfielder has made it plain he sees United as his next step. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, and the club view him as the direct successor to Casemiro — a role he’s well-equipped to fill given his composure, passing range, and experience in high-stakes European football.
Atalanta boss Raffaele Palladino didn’t mince words when confirming the impact of the transfer saga. “Éderson was an unused substitute against Fiorentina because of interest from a major club,” he said — a statement widely interpreted as pointing squarely at United’s pursuit.
Manchester United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, has been tracking Éderson, and the club moved swiftly once their main rival, Atlético Madrid, pivoted to target João Gomes instead. With that competition removed, United seized the moment, and Giuntoli’s arrival at Atalanta has helped streamline negotiations.
Éderson joined Atalanta from Salernitana in 2022 and spent four seasons in Bergamo, establishing himself as a key figure in their midfield. He played a pivotal role in their 2024 Europa League triumph and featured in both of the last two Champions League campaigns — experiences that have only sharpened his credentials for life in the Premier League.
As the World Cup captures global attention, United are making their move in a window where top clubs are finalising crucial business. With Éderson on the verge of joining, the Red Devils look set to strengthen their engine room just as the season looms.