Man United agree £38.8m Ederson deal as Rashford and Fernandes futures remain unresolved

Manchester United have agreed a £38.8 million package with Atalanta to sign 26-year-old Brazilian midfielder Ederson, making him the first official arrival under manager Michael Carrick as the club embarks on a significant midfield rebuild ahead of their return to the Champions League.

The deal forms part of a broader overhaul in the centre of the pitch, with Casemiro expected to depart and Carrick targeting at least two or three new central midfielders. United are also set to complete the signing of 17-year-old Colombian midfielder Cristian Orozco next month, after a preliminary agreement was struck with Fortaleza CEIF last year. The move can be finalised once Orozco turns 18.

West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes has emerged as a primary long-term target. The 21-year-old reportedly favours a move to Old Trafford over an approach from Paris Saint-Germain following West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League.

In the outgoings column, Rasmus Højlund has permanently joined Napoli, with his departure automatically triggered after the Italian club secured Champions League football for next season.

The situation surrounding Marcus Rashford remains unresolved. His loan spell at Barcelona has concluded, but United are reluctant to sanction a second temporary arrangement while Barcelona’s interest is reported to be cooling as they shift focus to other targets.

United’s pursuit of Sandro Tonali could also be complicated by external market movements. Barcelona’s separate £69 million acquisition of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United eases financial pressure on the Tyneside club, potentially making them a harder negotiating partner for any deal involving the Italian midfielder.

Beyond midfield, the club’s leadership has compiled shortlists to address further squad gaps, with a new winger, a full-back, and a centre-back all identified as priorities before the new season begins.