Manchester United is close to completing the deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta. This is considered one of the most notable signings of the 2026 summer transfer window.
In the context that Casemiro has left and Manuel Ugarte has not met expectations, the Old Trafford team needs a more comprehensive central midfielder to serve coach Michael Carrick's rebuilding plan.
Ederson's greatest strength lies in versatility. In Atalanta's colors, the Brazilian midfielder used to play alongside very different types of players such as Teun Koopmeiners or Marten de Roon but both completed their tasks well. He can play as a central midfielder who favors defense, a box-to-box midfielder or even take on the role of supporting attack when necessary.
According to coach Tiago Nunes, who used to work with Ederson at Corinthians, the 26-year-old player possesses special adaptability. He can play in ball control systems, but is also very suitable for high-speed transitioning play thanks to his abundant physical foundation and ability to exploit space effectively.
That is also why Ederson is considered a suitable piece for Man United under Carrick. He is not simply a defensive midfielder but also has the ability to circulate the ball, pull the ball forward and participate in attacking situations. These qualities help him become the all-around midfielder that Man United has lacked in recent seasons.
Ederson's career in Europe also showed admirable adaptability. After moving to Salernitana in early 2022, he quickly made an impression before being recruited by Atalanta after only a few months. Although taking time to get acquainted with Gian Piero Gasperini's harsh tactical system, Ederson still gradually affirmed himself and became an important factor in the Europa League 2024 championship journey of the Bergamo team.
Not only possessing abundant energy, Ederson is also highly appreciated for his tactical thinking. Coach Fabio Capello once praised him for his "rare tactical intelligence", while those who worked with him all appreciated the progressive spirit and will to rise of this player.
He has two main strengths. First, on the pitch, he has excellent fitness, the ability to play football all over the field, move continuously and maintain the pace of the match. Second, he has a very strong spirit, with a very clear awareness of what he wants" - Capello commented.
The Premier League will certainly be the biggest challenge in Ederson's career, but what he has shown in Serie A shows that this is a player who is capable of adapting to the top football environment. If he maintains his form as at Atalanta, the Brazilian midfielder can completely become a new core in Man United's midfield in the coming years.
