Arsenal are reportedly interested in Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with Atletico Madrid also keen on the Brazilian star.
According to Marca via Sport Witness, Arsenal are in the mix for Ederson alongside Atletico Madrid ahead of the summer. The Brazilian midfielder is a key part of the Atalanta side, who are reportedly demanding at least €50 million — something the Premier League side might be able to afford, although there are questions about Atletico Madrid’s ability in that regard.
Atalanta have been courting interest in the market for their key midfielder over the last few windows, with the likes of Manchester United among a host of teams interested. The Red Devils are still keen, as per many reports, but there are others who are now angling for a move.
Ederson will enter the final year of his deal with Atalanta in the summer, which could mean a breaking point for the Serie A giants to make a decision. The Bergamo outfit are reportedly demanding at least €50 million for their Brazilian midfielder, which is a problem for one of the suitors, Atletico Madrid.
Diego Simeone’s side are reportedly prepared to pay €35 million plus €5 million in bonuses, which may fall short of the valuation stated by Atalanta. Manchester United were only preparing a €30 million move, which might make sense given the Brazilian’s contractual situation at Atalanta.
Atletico Madrid’s interest is rather curious, as the report links this to the time Arsenal director Andrea Berta was at the club. The Spanish giants could make their move by opening early negotiations, which could eventually lead to a price drop for the €50 million-rated Brazilian, but they are now faced with the challenge of Arsenal in the race.
Arsenal to Enter Ederson race?
Arsenal are considering a new midfielder in the summer who fits with their style, and Ederson is certainly in that category. The report points to the presence of Berta with regard to the links with the Gunners, as their need for a new midfielder to add to their current options also points towards the €50 million-rated Brazilian.
These links to Arsenal have never occurred before, which does cast doubt on whether they are serious about the Atalanta star. From a stylistic perspective, Ederson does fit into what Mikel Arteta seeks from his midfielders, as the Gunners are also in a healthy financial position to negotiate a good enough deal that suits all parties.
