"New contacts": Man Utd now hold talks to sign £50.5m midfielder, 25yo could replace Eriksen - opinion

Manchester United have an advantage over Manchester City and Juventus in the race to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson, according to journalist Alfredo Pedulla.

The Red Devils could enter the transfer market for a new midfielder this summer.

The club are poised to part ways with Christian Eriksen when his contract expires on June 30.

The focus could be on landing a more defensive-minded midfielder over a creative one and Pedulla claims that there have been ‘new contacts’ to sign Ederson.

Talks are expected to resume after the Europa League final. United have an edge over City and Juventus, having made the first approach for the Brazil international.

They will need to find an agreement with Atalanta, who are holding out for £50.5 million for a transfer.

Ederson would be a superb acquisition to replace Eriksen

The 25-year-old has developed into one of the best midfielders in the Italian top-flight.

Ederson, who can play as a central or defensive midfielder, has a passing accuracy of 87 percent in Serie A this term. He has won 5.5 duels per game with 5.1 recoveries and 1.4 successful tackles.

The Brazilian’s work rate has been one of his main strengths. He has also impressed with his positioning and ability to deliver quality long balls. He would be an ideal midfield acquisition.

The Red Devils are set to lose Eriksen on a free transfer this summer. The club still have Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes to occupy the number eight position.

Hence, the onus could be on landing a midfielder with better defensive resolve. Ederson could be seen as a successor to compatriot Casemiro, who could be on the move next year.

Casemiro has transformed his fortunes with stand-out displays over the last few months. He could stay for the final year of his £350,000 per week deal, but the club are unlikely to extend his deal.

Stats from Sofascore.com & Capology.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .