Manchester United are on the verge of completing their first signing of the summer, with Brazilian midfielder Ederson set to leave Atalanta for Old Trafford in a deal that could rise to £40 million.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano first revealed last week that Ederson would be the Red Devils' opening move of the window. Reports from ESPN Brazil's SportsCenter and Brazilian transfer specialist Jorge Nicola have since confirmed that a meeting was scheduled to finalise the agreement, with Nicola describing the midfielder as an almost ex-Atalanta player.

Nicola spoke with André Cury, the player's representative, who disclosed that the transfer fee will exceed the previously reported £35 million figure, climbing to £40 million once bonuses — described as easily achievable — are factored in. Only minor details remain outstanding, with the meeting expected to settle those formalities and rubber-stamp the deal.

World Cup call-up adds to the excitement

The timing could not be more favourable for United. Ederson, 26, received a significant boost on Monday when he was named in Brazil's squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America. His inclusion came after Roma's Wesley Franca sustained an adductor injury during Brazil's friendly against Egypt.

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti opted to call up Ederson rather than bring in a replacement right-back for the injured Franca — a decision that reflects the faith Ancelotti has placed in the midfielder ahead of the tournament.

United are therefore set to welcome their new signing after a World Cup campaign at football's highest level. The move is expected to be structured as a four-year deal, as Michael Carrick's side prepare for a return to UEFA Champions League football next season — a remarkable achievement after climbing 12 positions in the Premier League table between the 2024/25 and 2025/26 campaigns.

Ederson fills the void left by veteran midfielder Casemiro and becomes a key pillar in Carrick's summer rebuild, as United look to compete across all fronts in the coming season.