Man Utd negotiating personal terms with £80m target

Despite the transfer window not opening for another two weeks, the Manchester United recruitment team have already laid out their ambitions ahead of the summer.

Countless players continue to be linked with a move to Old Trafford ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, as the hierarchy look to hand Michael Carrick with the ammunition he needs for success.

The 44-year-old has been tasked with building on his success this season, subsequently being handed a two-year contract after leading the Red Devils to third place in the Premier League.

It remains to be seen how much the board will hand Carrick in his quest – especially after spending upwards of £220m on new additions less than 12 months ago.

However, it hasn’t prevented the manager from advancing deals for a host of top talents ahead of the upcoming transfer window…

Man Utd discussing personal terms with £80m star

It’s been no secret for United fans that a deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson is nearing completion after weeks of ongoing negotiations between the two clubs.

Personal terms have already been reached with the 26-year-old star, with just a fee needing to be reached before a deal can finally reach its conclusion.

The Serie A outfit have placed a £35m asking price on the Brazilian’s head as they look to cash in – given he has just one year remaining on his current contract in Italy.

Whilst Ederson will likely be United’s first addition of the window, the hierarchy appear willing to make further reinforcements – including that of West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes.

The Athletic have reported that the Red Devils have also been in talks with the player’s representatives over the possibility of a transfer to Old Trafford this summer.

Other sides, such as Arsenal and Liverpool have been credited with an interest in the Portuguese international, who suffered relegation with the Hammers this term.

Any deal would likely be another statement of intent from INEOS, as a fee in the region of £80m could be required to prise him away from the East London outfit.

Why Fernandes would wipe the floor with Ederson at United

The departure of fan-favourite Casemiro and potential departure of Manuel Ugarte has made midfield additions a priority for United and Carrick this summer.

Kobbie Mainoo’s resurgence has once again made him a crucial player at the heart of the side and will likely continue his progression under the permanent boss next term.

Ederson could well be the Englishman’s partner in the Red Devils midfield throughout 2026/27 with the deal now expected to be wrapped up before the World Cup.

Many will be hoping for an immediate impact from the Brazilian at Old Trafford – potentially even emulating the levels produced by his compatriot, Casemiro.

The 26-year-old’s lack of experience in such a division could be a cause for concern, which could explain the recent desire to land Fernandes from West Ham.

Despite suffering relegation with the Hammers this term, the Portuguese international has demonstrated he’s a top-level operator and capable of continuing in the Premier League in 2026/27.

A move away from the London Stadium is expected before the end of the summer, but it’s pivotal United jump ahead of the competition and secure a move for his signature.

His figures from the recent campaign in England’s top-flight demonstrate his quality, with fellow target Ederson unable to get anywhere near his phenomenal numbers.

The 21-year-old won a staggering 180 ground duels in the Premier League this season, subsequently ranking him in the top three of all players in such a division.

Only Elliot Anderson and Joao Gomes managed to come out on top in more duels, which highlights Fernandes’ remarkable ability to regain possession for his side.

His defensive talent was further highlighted in his tally of tackles won, as his tally of 98 only bettered by three players – Anderson, James Garner and Joao Palhinha.

Fernandes has also been a huge threat to the opposition with the ball at his feet, subsequently drawing 47 fouls – once again placing him in the top 10 players in the division.

At just 21, the levels produced by Fernandes are nothing short of remarkable and who’s to say he can’t reach the next level in his career under Carrick’s guidance.

£80m would be a hefty figure for the West Ham star, but it could prove to be a bargain if he continues his impressive development in the Premier League.

Ederson may, too, be on the way to Old Trafford this summer, but he may have to accept a backup role – especially if a deal is reached for the Portuguese international.