Manchester United are already accelerating plans for a major midfield rebuild this summer ahead of Michael Carrick’s first full season in charge.
The club moved aggressively in the market after identifying central midfield as one of the biggest weaknesses inside the current squad. Casemiro’s departure forced United into immediate action.
Uncertainty surrounding Manuel Ugarte’s future also increased pressure on the recruitment team to secure multiple additions before pre-season begins.
Now, after moving close to finalising one deal, attention already shifted towards another major target.
Brazilian midfielder Ederson is expected to become Manchester United’s first signing of the summer.
Reports suggest United are now in the final stages of negotiations with Atalanta over a deal worth around £38 million including add-ons.
The 26-year-old reportedly already agreed to the move and was even left out of Atalanta’s final Serie A match to avoid risking injury before the transfer. Still, United are not intending to stop there.
According to the i Paper, United already identified West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes as their next major midfield target. Club officials reportedly admire the Portuguese midfielder.
Even more encouraging for United is the suggestion Fernandes already views Old Trafford as his preferred destination.
West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League could also significantly help Manchester United during negotiations.
The 21-year-old attracted growing interest from several top clubs after consistently impressing despite West Ham’s struggles.
United believe the midfielder could become an important long-term part inside Carrick’s rebuilding project.
Meanwhile, West Ham may also face difficult decisions regarding other key players, including Jarrod Bowen.
The England international continues attracting interest from several elite Premier League clubs despite recently signing a long-term contract.
For now though, Manchester United’s immediate focus remains completing the Ederson deal before fully accelerating efforts to land Mateus Fernandes as part of a huge midfield overhaul this summer.
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