Man Utd’s 'next four signings decided' after sealing £35m Ederson deal

Manchester United are targeting five new signings this summer after agreeing a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who is set to become the first arrival of the Michael Carrick era. The Red Devils have just secured their return to the Champions League and, having contested only 40 matches across all competitions last term, are aware their squad will face greater demands over the coming 12 months.

Consequently they're pursuing a host of new recruits with The Times reporting that several midfielders feature on their shortlist. A deal worth an initial £35million has been agreedwith Atalanta to secure their Brazilian talent. In addition they hold interest in Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni, West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes and Brighton's Carlos Baleba. Elliot Anderson has also been mentioned although it appears Manchester City are frontrunners to land him.

A striker is also being considered with the club having already confirmed that Rasmus Hojlund has departed Old Trafford permanently. A left-back represents another position under consideration with Newcastle star Lewis Hall emerging as a potential option.

Despite their recruitment ambitions the United hierarchy has emphasised, and Michael Carrick wholeheartedly supports, that opportunities for young players breaking into the first-team cannot be completely shut down.

The former United player turned manager is a staunch advocate of utilising the academy system.

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Carrick is familiar with the club's traditions and wasted no time in bringing Kobbie Mainoo back into the setup upon his appointment in January.

The midfielder rediscovered his best form, and the club are keen to see more of their emerging talent given opportunities, with the likes of Shea Lacey having already benefitted last season.

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Ruben Amorim drew considerable criticism for his reluctance to utilise the club's young talent, having also consigned Mainoo to the bench and deployed the midfielder only sparingly.

Carrick's appointment was warmly welcomed by families with players in the academy, who felt he would prove far more open to their future prospects.

United are also braced for further high-profile departures, which will open up squad places while simultaneously generating funds for their transfer ambitions.

Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee, Marcus Rashford and Andre Onana have all been made available, while Casemiro has already moved on following the expiry of his deal.

Jadon Sancho, who endured an underwhelming campaign on loan at Aston Villa, is another figure set to depart on a free transfer.

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