Michael Carrick could be close to signing his first contract as Manchester United manager after Ederson was left out of Atalanta’s squad on Friday night. United finally confirmed on Friday morning that Carrick has agreed a contract until 2028 to remain as head coach.
Hours later, Ederson was an unused substitute in a 1-1 draw with Fiorentina. Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino stopped short of naming United, but revealed that Ederson’s absence was due to transfers.
He said: “Ederson leaving? Something is happening in the transfer market, so this was a decision I agreed with the boy. The fact that a player like that is being pursued by such a big club should be a source of pride.”
Earlier this week, it was reported that United were in talks with Atalanta to sign Ederson. The Italian side are reportedly hoping for a transfer fee of £34.5 million plus a further £4.3 million in add-ons for the midfielder.
Expectations are high that United’s big move in the summer market will be in the midfield. However, Casemiro’s departure makes it even more important for the Red Devils to have reinforcements in the center of the park this summer.
Elliott Anderson is thought to be at the top of United’s transfer list ahead of the summer transfer window. Both United and Manchester City are monitoring the England international’s progress ahead of a potential move for the £100m-valued Nottingham Forest star.
Since joining Forest from Newcastle United in the summer of 2024, the 23-year-old has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in the Premier League. Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are also thought to be keen on signing Anderson this summer, but it is expected to be a battle between City and United.
Asked whether Anderson would remain at the City Ground, Forest manager Vitor Pereira admitted last weekend: “I don’t have an answer to this.”
“The market is the market and anything can happen. All I can say is that the club definitely wants to keep him playing for us.”
“The club wants to retain players. This is a very good group with quality and character and we are in a very good position for next season.”
