Man Utd open talks to sign forgotten England man as Michael Carrick's top target named

Manchester United have opened talks to sign a Premier League star as their potential second summer signing after Ederson.

United have reached an agreement with Atalanta to sign Brazil midfielder Ederson for an initial fee of £35 million plus £4 million in add-ons.

The 26-year-old's move is expected to be finalised in early July, as per The Athletic, though his recent addition to Brazil's World Cup squad as an injury replacement may delay his arrival.

It was reported earlier this week by Fabrizio Romano that United had made initial contact to sign West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, though had been quoted a staggering fee of £85 million.

However, the Hammers need to sell players following their relegation to the Championship and United may be able to drive that down.

READ MORE: Man Utd 'make contact' with £85m star as Michael Carrick nears another summer signing

Man Utd move 'greatly appeals' to top transfer target

Now, they appear to have turned their attentions in the short-term to Newcastle star Lewis Hall - and have decided he is their top target.

The England left-back, who missed out on a spot in Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad to Nico O'Reilly and Djed Spence, could be one of the high-profile casualties at St James' Park after the Magpies failed to qualify for Europe.

United need a left-back following Tyrell Malacia's departure as a free agent.

First-choice left-back Luke Shaw started all 38 of United's Premier League games this season but, with Champions League football on the horizon, United will need competition for the 30-year-old.

Hall, 21, came through Chelsea's academy and made 12 appearances for the first team before signing for Newcastle on loan.

The Magpies activated a clause to sign him permanently in the summer of 2024 and has since developed into one of their key players.

He put in a particularly impressive performance during Newcastle's 1-1 draw with Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, shutting down Lamine Yamal on the right flank.

Hall and Barcelona's Lamine Yamal pictured (Image: Getty)

According to TEAMtalk, United have already held discussions over signing Hall and have now assigned him as their top target.

He is said to be available for £60 million but it would be a surprise if Newcastle were willing to sell for that low an amount.

It is claimed that a move to Old Trafford 'greatly appeals' to Hall, who wants to play Champions League football next season.

He is also said to see the transfer as 'a significant step in his development'.