Manchester United have reportedly received encouraging news in their pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, as contract negotiations between the Brazilian star and the Italian club have reached a standstill. This development has opened the door wider for United, who have been monitoring the player for months as they look to reinforce their midfield for the coming seasons.
A Key Player Facing an Uncertain Future
Since joining Atalanta from Salernitana in 2022, Ederson has been one of the club’s most reliable performers. The 26-year-old midfielder has made 152 appearances, consistently delivering solid, disciplined, and high-energy displays. His tactical intelligence and versatility have made him a crucial component in Atalanta’s system.
However, despite his importance, Ederson’s future has suddenly become uncertain. Negotiations for a contract extension have dragged on without progress, and with his current deal entering its final stretch, speculation around a potential transfer has grown rapidly. Several top European clubs have been tracking his situation, with Manchester United among the most serious contenders.
Talks Collapse Between Ederson and Atalanta
According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà, Manchester United are now in a strong position to secure Ederson’s signature. The midfielder is reportedly no longer interested in extending his stay in Bergamo.
Atalanta have been aware of United’s interest and attempted to offer Ederson a new contract to fend off suitors. Unfortunately for La Dea, negotiations took a negative turn.
Ederson’s agent, Andre Cury, is said to have withdrawn from further discussions after Atalanta presented a salary proposal that fell far below expectations. As a result, the talks have effectively collapsed, leaving Atalanta in a difficult position ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Atalanta Face a Tough Decision
With Ederson’s contract running down, Atalanta are now forced to choose between:
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Keeping the player for the remainder of the season and risking losing him for a significantly reduced fee later, or
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Selling him in the January 2026 transfer window to secure a reasonable return on his current market value.
Initially, Atalanta had placed a €60 million price tag on the midfielder. However, due to the stalled contract situation and the pressure of time, his market value is believed to have dropped. Current estimates suggest Ederson could now be available for €30–40 million, a much more affordable figure for interested clubs.
This puts additional pressure on Atalanta’s new head coach, Raffaele Palladino, who is reluctant to lose one of his most important players midway through the season. Yet the club also understands that delaying the decision could further decrease the player’s value.
Manchester United and Barcelona in the Race
Manchester United are not the only club eyeing Ederson. Barcelona have also been monitoring the situation closely, viewing the Brazilian as a potential long-term solution in their midfield.
However, the breakdown in negotiations has placed Manchester United ahead in the race. United’s need for reinforcement in the centre of the pitch, combined with their financial capability, makes them one of the most realistic destinations should Atalanta agree to sell in January.
For United, Ederson represents a dynamic, disciplined, and experienced option — qualities that manager Ruben Amorim has been seeking to strengthen the squad.
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