Atalanta identify Manchester United target to replace Ederson

As Manchester United search for their next midfield signing, one of their options is being seriously targeted by a club rival, as well as Atalanta, who are looking to replace their outgoing midfielder.

After the Red Devils missed out on top target Elliot Anderson, and Tottenham Hotspur steam ahead in the race to sign Mateus Fernandes, options are appearing few and far between. The target for this summer has always been for United to bring in three centre midfielders, with one (Atalanta’s Ederson) already completed.

Following a serious injury to Manuel Ugarte while playing in the World Cup for Uruguay, one option to boost midfield transfer funds could have been hit with an almighty blow. Now, Manchester United may have to turn their attention to lesser targets to complete their three signings, as the partner for Kobbie Mainoo is prioritised.

One player who has been scouted is Northern Irishman Shea Charles. The Southampton midfielder scored winners in both the FA Cup quarter-final against Arsenal and in the Championship play-off semi-final against Middlesbrough in the 2025/26 season, and is a top target for Leeds United.

The Red Devils’ historic rivals have tabled two bids to sign Shea Charles, both worth over £20 million. But Southampton have pushed back both, and want Leeds, or any potential suitor, to pay £30 million for the 22-year-old, according to The Daily Mail.

As well as Leeds, Manchester United and Everton holding interest in Charles this year, Atalanta have monitored him, as a contender to replace Ederson, who is set to sign for Manchester United himself.

It would be a huge blow for Atalanta to lose both their star midfielder, Ederson, and their targeted replacement to Manchester United. But for now, Shea Charles does not appear on the list of priority signings for the Red Devils.

If the Reds want Shea Charles, it appears they will have to fork out around £30 million – a fee they will unlikely see much value in paying.