Manchester United have now made contact regarding a deal for an “iconic” midfielder, who could be in line to join alongside their deal for Ederson.
Michael Carrick closing in on first signing as Man Utd manager
Michael Carrick was handed a two-year contract to become the permanent manager of Man United earlier this month, after overseeing a remarkable turnaround, and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now revealed the 44-year-old is closing in on his first signing.
“Éderson has agreed personal terms with Manchester United and paused all talks with other clubs since last week. Atalanta and Man United have been in talks over €45m package deal for weeks.
“It’s up to Man United whether they want to proceed with the deal or not, and when.”
The Atalanta star, who has made 180 appearances for the Italian side, looks poised to replace compatriot Casemiro in the middle of the park, with the 34-year-old widely reported to be of interest to MLS side Inter Miami, but another central midfielder may be required too.
That is because Manuel Ugarte has now been told to leave this summer, with the Uruguay international failing to make an appearance in United’s final six Premier League matches, and Newcastle United are one of the clubs keen on securing his signature.
Man Utd stepping up pursuit of another midfielder alongside Ederson
INEOS are wasting no time, ahead of an important transfer window, with journalist Valentin Furlan taking to X to reveal Man United have now made an approach to sign Botafogo midfielder Danilo, alongside AC Milan, Atalanta and Zenit St. Petersburg.
Palmeiras and Flamengo are also keen on a deal for the Brazilian, who previously spent time with Nottingham Forest, but his ‘priority’ is to return to Europe, which suggests the Red Devils may stand a decent chance of winning the race for his signature.
During his time with the Tricky Trees, the central midfielder was lauded as “iconic” by podcaster Callum Castel, and he made 50 appearances in the Premier League, picking up five goals and four assists.
The 25-year-old’s attacking talents have also been on show since returning to his native country, amassing 18 goal involvements in 41 matches for Botafogo, and he has been rewarded with a call-up to Brazil’s World Cup squad.
Ederson, who won the Europa League with Atalanta, has more experience at the top level than the two-cap Brazil international, and a deal for Danilo would be on the relatively expensive side, with Botafogo looking to hold out for around £34m.
However, Carrick needs to bring in depth in midfield, with Ugarte being informed he has no future at Old Trafford, and the former Forest star has experience in the Premier League, so he could be a savvy addition to Man United’s squad.
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It’s all heating up in Man Utd’s midfield search.
