Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, and those who have worked closely with the 26-year-old Brazil international believe he has the tools to thrive in the Premier League under Michael Carrick.

The move comes as United seek to overhaul a midfield that has struggled for depth and dynamism. The departures of Casemiro and the underwhelming Manuel Ugarte have left a clear gap, one that Ederson's profile appears well-suited to fill alongside the talented Kobbie Mainoo.

A player built for flexibility

What makes Ederson an appealing option is his versatility. At Atalanta, he has lined up alongside midfielders as contrasting as Teun Koopmeiners and Marten de Roon, adapting his game to suit each partnership. He is not a pure holding midfielder — he tackles, carries the ball, progresses through lines, and arrives in the final third with genuine intent.

Tiago Nunes, the coach who first developed Ederson at Corinthians in Brazil, offered a clear picture of his strengths when speaking in 2024.