Man Utd lead the race for ‘out of this world’ star – INEOS already made contact | OneFootball

Manchester United reportedly have the upper hand in the race for Atalanta star midfielder Ederson who might be on his way out of Bergamo.

The 25-year-old has become one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe. He was already on the radar of several top suitors last summer, but Atalanta weren’t willing to consider selling him in the same summer that witnessed the departure of fellow key midfielder Teun Koopmeiners (who joined Juventus)

But while the Dutchman’s departure was hardly felt, Ederson continued to solidify his place as one of Europe’s most complete players, helping La Dea clinch a place on the Serie A podium and reach the Champions League for the fifth time in seven years.

Former England and Real Madrid manager Fabio Capello once hailed the former Salernitana man as an ‘out of this world player’ due to his running, physicality, technique and intelligence.

Man Utd have the advantage in the three-horse race

(Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla, Man Utd are leading the race for Ederson, having been the first club to make a concrete move for the player. Therefore, the Red Devils now have the edge over their rivals in the race, namely Manchester City and Juventus.

Moreover, the transfer market expert reveals that INEOS have already made contact with the other parties, but without specifying whether it was with Atalanta or the player’s entourage.

Man United closing in on €60m Ederson

In any case, Pedulla expects United to resume their attempts to advance on this track after Wednesday’s Europa League final. Nevertheless, he insists that Atalanta won’t sanction the Brazilian’s departure for anything less than €60 million.

This season, Ederson has made 48 appearances in all competitions for Atalanta, contributing with five goals and two assists.

In Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation, he could be the perfect foil for Bruno Fernandes if the club captain continues to play in the double pivot. This could be a likely scenario with the incoming Matheus Cunha expected to take the attacking midfielder role alongside Amad Diallo.