Manchester United have reached an agreement to sign Brazilian midfielder Ederson from Atalanta on a permanent deal, according to David Ornstein.
The Red Devils have been looking to strengthen their midfield after identifying clear gaps in the squad during the current campaign.
Former manager Ruben Amorim was forced to deploy Bruno Fernandes in a midfield pivot role due to concerns over the qualities of Kobbie Mainoo and Manu Ugarte.
The arrival of Michael Carrick in January transformed United’s fortunes, with Mainoo partnering Casemiro in midfield and Fernandes thriving further forward.
Fernandes went on to win the league’s best player award following his repositioning under Carrick’s revised system.
Casemiro has since confirmed his departure from the club, while Ugarte’s performances have been considered below par, prompting United to seek reinforcements.
Ornstein reports that United negotiated a considerably lower transfer fee of £35m, including £3.9m in potential add-ons, despite interest from other clubs.
Ederson reportedly prioritised a move to Old Trafford over rival suitors, and has agreed personal terms on a four-year deal with an option for a further year.
Medical formalities are expected to follow next month, with the 26-year-old set to complete his move to Manchester United this summer.
Ederson’s physical presence stands out as a key attribute, with the midfielder standing at 6ft 1in and recording 135 successful duels at a 53.6% win rate last season.
He also contributed 59 tackles and 133 recoveries during the recently completed campaign, underlining his relentless commitment to pressing and winning possession back.
In possession, Ederson completed 1,190 passes at an accuracy rate of 89.2%, while his long-range distribution was reflected by a 72.1% long-pass accuracy last season.
Ederson is not expected to be the last midfield addition as Carrick looks to build a squad capable of returning United to their former glories.