Man Utd 'weigh up ambitious Ederson transfer plan' after Liverpool scouting mission

Manchester United are reportedly mulling over an ambitious move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson after cooling their interest in Manuel Ugarte. The Red Devils are believed to be eyeing reinforcements in the engine room as Erik ten Hag looks to prepare his squad for the new Premier League campaign.

United are said to have shelved their interest in Ugarte after baulking at his £51million price tag. Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly unwilling to lower their valuation of the player, making a deal unworkable as things stand.

Ederson has since emerged as an alternative target, according to GiveMeSport, with United thought to have already spoken to his representatives. It is said that initial contact was made in March before he was kept on United's radar as a potential midfield recruit.

Liverpool reportedly sent scouts to watch him play at the end of last season and they were said to have been left impressed by what they saw. There is no suggestion that a bid is forthcoming, though, with United mulling over whether to firm up their own interest by submitting an offer.

Ederson helped Atalanta to win the Europa League last season and is thought to be valued at around £38m by the Italian side. He remains tied down until the summer of 2027, meaning Atalanta are under no immediate pressure to sell him if their demands are not met.

The likes of Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Juventus have also been credited with an interest in Ederson, who made his international debut for Brazil earlier this summer. It remains to be seen where he will end up, with United able to beat the competition by acting quickly to secure his signature.

Ederson is not the only name on United's shortlist, with a selection of other midfielders also believed to be under consideration. The Red Devils have reportedly identified Wolves playmaker Joao Gomes and Fluminense ace Andre as two alternative targets.

United have already spent around £88m on the signings of defender Leny Yoro and forward Joshua Zirkzee this summer. However, they have recouped almost half of that figure from the sales of Mason Greenwood, Willy Kambwala, Alvaro Fernandez and Donny van de Beek.

Ten Hag is thought to be keen on signing at least one more central defender in addition to his pursuit of a deep-lying midfielder. A potential move for Matthijs de Ligt, who played under the United boss during his time at Ajax, is said to be in the works but nothing is believed to be imminent as of yet.