Manchester United are expected to target a Premier League-based player to replace Casemiro, despite interest in Atalanta midfielder Ederson.
Midfield is the focus for Manchester United heading into the summer transfer window, as Casemiro prepares to depart.
The Brazilian is due to leave when his contract expires, despite a key role in the club’s impressive improvement this season. Manuel Ugarte is also expected to move after a difficult spell at Old Trafford.
United want to bring in a player to complement Kobbie Mainoo, who has signed a new contract, and Bruno Fernandes for next season.
The Athletic journalist Laurie Whitwell has confirmed the club’s interest in Atalanta midfielder Ederson, whose contract situation in Italy has seen him re-emerge as a target, after interest last summer.
However, he told Stretford Paddock that he expects United to focus on a Premier League-proven player for a key role, following Ugarte’s inability to make an impression. United have been linked with Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, and Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.
“There is Ederson at Atalanta. He was one that was featured prominently last summer – too much money being asked for from Atalanta. His contract situation is lesser now, so maybe he’s back on the market.
“I’d be surprised after how things have gone with Ugarte, coming in from the French league, the Italian league is different.
“It’s a player in a serious part of the pitch that they need to get right, that would surprise me to go for a player that hasn’t played in the Premier League. Maybe the data shows he’s the guy. He’s definitely one that’s been discussed.”
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