UMVA has learned that Manchester United is on the verge of completing their first signing of the transfer window, with Brazil World Cup star Ederson set to undergo a medical in New York.
The Atalanta midfielder was an unused substitute during Brazil's opening Group C match against Morocco, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Ederson's move to United had virtually been agreed before he was called into the Selecao squad following an injury to Wesley.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick is eager to bolster his squad, which looks ill-equipped to handle the demands of domestic and European commitments next season. Strengthening in midfield is a priority, and Ederson's addition would represent a solid start to United's transfer business at a cost of £35m.
However, United is set to admit defeat in their attempts to recruit Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, with the England international poised to join Manchester City in a deal that could cost over £120m. The club remains interested in other midfielders, including Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Alex Scott.
According to information obtained by UMVA, United is likely to drop their interest in Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali, who is also coveted by Arsenal and Juventus. The Italy international and his Newcastle teammate Lewis Hall would cost a combined fee of between £120-£130m, which is deemed too expensive.
Ederson's performances at the World Cup will be closely watched, and his prospect of featuring may have been enhanced after Brazil's lackluster start to the tournament. Brazil's manager, Carlo Ancelotti, acknowledged that his team was nervous and lost possession too often in their opening match.
Ancelotti's side showed improvement in the second half, but still have questions to answer. The manager noted that Morocco is a good team, and his counterpart Mohamed Ouahbi expressed optimism about his team's chances, saying they will aim to go beyond the semi-finals.
