The latest transfer developments and rumors surrounding Manchester United include reports indicating Erik ten Hag’s interest in acquiring Atalanta midfielder Ederson and Real Sociedad standout Mikel Merino. As Manchester United prepares for their upcoming FA Cup fixture against Liverpool, scheduled for this weekend at Old Trafford, attention is also focused on their ongoing campaign in the Premier League where they currently occupy sixth place. Following their clash with Liverpool, the team will have a hiatus until March 30th when they face Brentford. Amidst the ongoing season, speculation regarding potential summer transfers is rife, with numerous players linked to a move to Old Trafford. Among the latest rumors, Manchester United is reportedly eyeing a move for Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
According to reports from Spanish outlet COPE, Merino’s performances have attracted interest from several European clubs, including Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus, and Atletico Madrid. It is suggested that Merino has a release clause in his contract, set to expire in 2025, valued at €60 million (£51 million). Concerns have been raised at Sociedad regarding the possibility of losing Merino on a free transfer upon contract expiration, prompting interest from Manchester United and other clubs who have reportedly deployed scouts to monitor the midfielder’s progress. Additionally, Manchester United has reportedly dispatched scouts to observe Ederson during Atalanta’s recent fixture against Juventus.
With plans to reinforce the midfield during the summer transfer window, Manchester United is reportedly considering Ederson as a potential target. The uncertainty surrounding Casemiro’s future, coupled with Ten Hag’s desire to bolster the midfield, further fuels speculation regarding United’s pursuit of Ederson. Notably, this is not the first instance of Manchester United being linked with Ederson, as other clubs such as Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle have also shown interest in the Brazilian Under-20 international.