Ederson, Tonali and Leao headline Manchester United's early summer transfer targets

Manchester United are preparing for a busy summer transfer window after securing Champions League football at the end of their Premier League season, with Atalanta midfielder Ederson, Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao among the names being linked with a move to Old Trafford.

Ederson has emerged as one of the more persistent targets, with multiple reports suggesting the Brazilian could be among United’s first signings under manager Michael Carrick. Tonali, who has impressed at Newcastle since returning from his betting ban, is also said to be on the club’s radar, while separate reports indicate that Leao may be available for a lower fee than previously anticipated.

Rio Ferdinand, speaking about last summer’s arrivals, expressed optimism that Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha will all improve in their second seasons at the club. “If we, listen, the second season now, you go, Sesko, you’re going to have a better version of Sesko you’d like to think,” the former United defender said. “You’ll have a better version of Amad, Mbeumo, Cunha, right? And they might add someone else to that. If those guys start hitting a bit of form and purple patches, right?”

Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes has revealed how close he came to joining Tottenham before his move to United in January 2020. The Portuguese midfielder said Sporting held firm in the final two days of the summer window, refusing to sanction a deal. “Yeah, I spoke with Tottenham and we were very close to getting an agreement done,” Fernandes said. “Then in the last two days of the market, Sporting just said we are not going to sell him. We’re going to keep him because we need him. Obviously I was lucky enough that my dream club to play in England was Manchester United.”

Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers has also been mentioned in connection with United, though the source material does not confirm any formal approach. Carrick has used both a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-4-2 at various points this season, leaving several positions where additional quality could be sought.