Man Utd fans go into meltdown after transfer expert drops huge hint over big-name signing in the January window

A well-respected journalist has given an update on Manchester United’s pursuit of a highly-rated Serie A midfielder – and fans are excited.

United head coach Ruben Amorim, 39, has not been able to recruit players given the fact he arrived at the club in November.

Earlier this week, the Mail suggested that most of United's squad could be up for sale if the right fee is put forward in January.

Just two key players are considered “crown jewels”, with the club preferring to avoid a sale of the pair in question.

United have already been linked with re-signing a former academy product to boost their depth at left-back.

Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation has meant that several players have started in unfamiliar positions in recent matches, with usual right-back Diogo Dalot employed as a left wingback while captain and ‘number ten’ Bruno Fernandes even playing a deeper role in Thursday’s 2-1 Europa League win over Viktoria Plzen.

The midfield position is relatively well stocked with summer recruit Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Fernandes and Mason Mount all available for selection.

But Amorim could still look to recruit an in-form Brazilian to bolster his options.

In November, Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reported that the United were “discussing and considering Ederson”, who plays for 2023/24 Europa League winners Atalanta. A potential deal could also happen “as early as the winter transfer window”.

On Friday, Plettenberg reposted his previous tweet with a downward arrow and tick emoji.

What Man Utd fans think

Fans on social media were quick to voice their excitement at the prospect of Ederson, 25, joining the club.

One said: “Watched him only a couple times...he's not necessarily a 6 that sits deep...he's ahead of play a lot of the time.”

Another added: “Get it done, Man Utd, please.”

A third commented: “Please, please, please, let this be true.”

Ederson has been linked with a move to the Premier League (Credit:Getty)

The Brazilian man has been a key player in the Italian club’s success in recent times. He played 53 times last term, helping the Bergamo-based team to a Europa League crown, Italian Cup final, and a fourth-place Serie A finish.

This term, he has continued his impressive form-making 21 appearances - Atalanta currently top the Italian top-flight.

The player’s current contract is set to run until June 2027, and he is valued at €40m (£33.2m) by Transfermarkt.

However, United may have to compete with a rival to recruit Ederson. The Telegraph reported that the Brazilian has been “strongly discussed” by suitors at Manchester City as they look to solve their midfield crisis.