Atalanta midfielder Ederson dos Santos has been a subject of transfer speculation for some time, with Atletico Madrid appearing to be his most likely destination for much of 2026. However, Manchester United now seem to have gained the upper hand in the pursuit of his signature.
With Ederson’s contract set to expire next summer, Atalanta are eager to sell him this year to avoid losing him on a free transfer. The 26-year-old was a target for Atletico Madrid in the January transfer window, but Sporting Director Mateu Alemany was unable to finalize a deal. Instead, the club signed Obed Vargas and Rodrigo Mendoza to address the departure of Conor Gallagher.
Manchester United Surpass Atletico Madrid in Ederson Transfer Pursuit
According to reports from Matteo Moretto, Manchester United have now leapfrogged Atletico Madrid in the race to sign Ederson. Los Colchoneros have been in discussions with the player for some time, aiming to secure an early transfer and preempt interest from Premier League clubs. However, it appears their window of opportunity may have closed.
Moretto reveals that Atletico Madrid had an agreement in place with Ederson for a contract worth approximately €4 million per annum. Nevertheless, Manchester United have presented a more lucrative offer, willing to pay him €4.5 million per year.
No Agreement Reached with Atalanta by Either Club
Despite the improved contract offers to the player, neither club has yet reached an agreement with Atalanta. This was the same obstacle that hindered Atletico’s efforts during the winter transfer window. Atalanta continues to demand €45 million for Ederson, but it seems unlikely that either team is willing to pay such a substantial fee for a player with only one year remaining on his contract.
Moretto further suggests that Ederson’s future is likely to be determined only when Atalanta lowers their asking price. For Atletico to secure the transfer, they will need to increase their offers to both the player and the selling club. Ederson would likely be considered a competitor for Johnny Cardoso in midfield, with Pablo Barrios and Koke Resurreccion also vying for a place in the team.