Atalanta identify Rennes midfielder as Ederson replacement

Manchester United are edging closer to completing one of their key summer midfield additions, with negotiations over a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson now reaching an advanced stage as the club look to strengthen under Michael Carrick.

The Brazilian has been identified as a priority signing as United reshape their midfield following Casemiro’s departure.

A fee of around £34 million has reportedly been agreed between Manchester United and Atalanta, with a further £3.8 million included in potential add-ons as discussions move towards finalisation.

The knock-on effect of that deal could also be felt elsewhere in the market, particularly in Atalanta’s transfer planning as they prepare for life after Ederson.

Atalants identify Ederson replacement

The Italian side are now understood to be targeting Rennes midfielder Jordan James as a potential replacement, having already made initial contact over a possible move, as reported by ReluctantNicko via Patreon.

Leicester City’s hopes of re-signing the Welshman could therefore be disrupted by Atalanta’s involvement in the race.

Jordan James enjoyed a standout loan spell in the Championship, where he registered 11 goals and 4 assists in 34 appearances, emphasising his growing reputation as one of the league’s most promising young midfielders.

His performances earned him a clean sweep of end-of-season awards at his loan club, including Players’ Player, Young Player, and overall Player of the Season.

A purchase option in the region of £4–5 million had been included in his previous deal, but following relegation to League One, a permanent move there now looks increasingly unlikely.

Interest in the midfielder is not limited to Atalanta, with Villarreal also believed to have submitted a formal bid and are awaiting a response, while several English clubs are monitoring his situation closely.

As United move closer to securing Ederson, the ripple effect of the transfer is already being felt across Europe, reshaping the plans of multiple clubs in the process.