BERGAMO — Atalanta Chief Executive Officer Luca Percassi has officially broken his silence regarding the intense transfer speculation surrounding Brazilian midfield powerhouse Éderson. Despite widespread media reports linking the player with a heavy summer move to Old Trafford, Percassi confirmed that Manchester United have yet to submit a formal, written financial package for the highly rated midfielder.

Speaking directly to Sky Sports, Percassi sought to quiet the rapidly growing rumors, emphasizing that the Serie A club remains entirely calm regarding the situation.

"Éderson? We have NOT received any official bid so far,” Percassi stated unequivocally. “There are clubs interested, but it’s still early. We haven’t received any official offers, just expressions of interest from other clubs. I think it’s unlikely that clubs will make a concrete move before the end of the season. It’s normal for our top performers to attract elite interest, but we’ll assess the situation when the time is right, with great composure and calm."

The £38.9m Valuation and Stalled Personal Terms

Percassi's clear stance comes amid intense speculation that Manchester United’s sporting department has already held successful discussions with Éderson’s representatives. Behind-the-scenes leaks suggest that the 26-year-old box-to-box midfielder has conceptually agreed to a long-term contract with the Red Devils running until 2031, with a wage structure estimated at roughly £100,000 gross per week.

However, despite the player’s clear willingness to test himself on the English stage, the entire transfer operation remains completely stalled at the executive level. Atalanta’s board has pinned a firm £38.9 million price tag on the Brazilian star. Until Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS leadership group translates their verbal admiration into a legally binding, official document matching that valuation, a deal cannot progress.

On the bright side for United, their prior executive relationship with Atalanta remains incredibly healthy. The smooth, multi-million-pound negotiations that previously brought Rasmus Højlund and Amad Diallo to Old Trafford could play a significant role in fast-tracking structural talks once United decides to formalize their pursuit.

Why Éderson is Central to INEOS' Midfield Revolution

Manchester United’s strong interest in Éderson is born out of sheer tactical necessity. The club is preparing for a massive, comprehensive overhaul of its engine room ahead of the new campaign. With veteran defensive midfielder Casemiro officially confirmed to leave the club, and Uruguayan international Manuel Ugarte widely expected to secure a departure after an inconsistent spell, a massive tactical void has opened up at the base of United's midfield.

The recruitment team views Éderson as the ideal, physically dominant, ball-winning anchor needed to stabilize the squad. His elite defensive discipline, coupled with an impressive passing range, is seen as the perfect tactical shield to partner young sensation Kobbie Mainoo. Furthermore, acquiring a specialized holding midfielder of Éderson's caliber would successfully liberate team captain Bruno Fernandes, allowing him to operate in advanced spaces without carrying heavy defensive backtracking duties.

The Race Quickens: Elite European Rivals Circle

Manchester United’s ongoing hesitation, however, risks exposing them to an elite European bidding war. The Red Devils are far from the only powerhouse monitoring the Brazilian's availability.

Continental heavyweight Atlético Madrid has emerged as a dangerous threat, with Spanish outlets reporting that Diego Simeone’s side has also held successful personal terms discussions with the player. Simultaneously, Serie A giants Juventus and Inter Milan, alongside Premier League title contenders Arsenal, are keeping tabs on the unfolding situation in Bergamo.

While Éderson’s personal preference leans heavily toward a dream move to the English Premier League, United's hierarchy must act decisively. Continued delays from the Old Trafford board could give rival clubs the window they need to hijack the deal before the current season officially draws to a close.