Manchester United confirmed a £35 million transfer agreement with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson, who will undergo his medical exam ahead of pre-season training [1, 2]. CEO Omar Berrada emphasized the club’s commitment to sticking to a clear transfer plan and avoiding overpaying in the market this summer [1, 2].
Berrada said, "You never know how you will come out of a window. You have to be really prepared, you have to have a clear plan, you have to know what positions you want to strengthen and you also have to be prepared for any eventuality." He added they must be “agile and flexible” during the transfer period [1].
The club is targeting one or two central midfielders and holds strong interest in West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, whose valuation stands at around £80 million [1]. United also seek a striker backup for Benjamin Sesko and a left-sided player to challenge Luke Shaw at full-back. Berrada described the strategy as a mix of experienced Premier League players and promising talent from outside the league [1].
Bruno Fernandes’ future remains uncertain as his contract expires next summer with an option for one more year. Berrada said, "We’d like him to stay, of course we do. He’s had a great season on the pitch but more importantly he’s shown to everybody that he is a great leader... he understands the values of the club really well" [2]. Fernandes has expressed mixed signals about remaining at the club [2].
Since August 2025, United have signed Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and goalkeeper Senne Lammens as part of their squad rebuild [1]. Berrada noted that trust between staff and management has improved following about 450 redundancies aimed at cutting costs [2].
Reflecting on last summer’s transfers, Berrada said, "I think the template of what we did last summer will be replicated. We have a clear plan. I do think what we saw last season is a good way forward for us" [2].
Ederson’s medical and official signing will be finalized before pre-season starts. Further transfer activity targeting midfield and defensive reinforcements is expected during the summer window [1].
