Manchester United are in advanced talks to make Atalanta’s Brazil midfielder Ederson their first summer signing.
Multiple sources have told BBC Sport a deal is close to completion, with a fee of 48m euros (£41.6m) likely for the 26-year-old.
Senior United officials played down speculation and say there is still no agreement for Ederson, who has 12 months left on his contract.
However, on the day they announced third-quarter profits of £37.7m for the nine months to 31 March – and chief executive Omar Berrada said he was “very positive about the club’s progress” – it is clear United are eager to build on their unexpected third-placed finish under new head coach Michael Carrick.
United do still owe a huge amount in outstanding transfer fees, which makes up the vast majority of the £482m owing in ‘trade and other payables’, and underlines the work needed to get their finances in order.
But they are determined to be competitive in the transfer market, while pledging not to fall into the trap of offering expensive long contracts as they have in the past.
United are prioritising strengthening central midfield this summer after the exit of Casemiro and uncertainty over Manuel Ugarte’s future.
Ideally, they would like to make two, or possibility three, signings in that area, although it appears first choice Elliot Anderson would prefer to join Manchester City.
While it is not unknown for United to negotiate with more than one target before making a final decision, they appear to have opted to move early for Ederson, who has three full Brazil caps but has missed out on World Cup selection.
Atletico Madrid were thought to be keen on the player, who has spent the past four and a half years in Serie A – initially with Salernitana – but the Spanish side have plumped for Wolves’ Joao Gomes instead.
Another potential United target, Mateus Fernandes, is likely to be sold by West Ham this summer as they come to terms with the financial consequences of relegation to the Championship.
United were keen on Brighton’s Carlos Baleba last summer, but would look to sign the Cameroon international for a lot less than they were willing to offer 12 months ago after his underwhelming season.