Manchester United have kicked off their summer transfer campaign impressively by finalising an agreement with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson.
The South American star is expected to be the first of several new additions as INEOS look to strengthen the squad in multiple positions across the field.
Unlike the Glazers, the new co-owners are demonstrating a more transparent approach regarding transfer strategies. Club CEO Omar Berrada recently sat down with the club’s media team to discuss the direction Manchester United plan to take in the upcoming window.
Interestingly, the former Manchester City executive indicated that, similar to last summer, the Red Devils intend to focus on players with proven Premier League experience, complemented by a few standout performers from European leagues.
Ederson falls into the latter group, while players like Elliot Anderson, Mateus Fernandes, and Lewis Hall represent the first category.
As was the case last summer, the 20-time English champions will avoid panic buys and refrain from paying inflated prices for short-term fixes.
“I think the template for what we did last summer will be replicated. You always go into a window not knowing how you will come out of it, but preparation is key,” Berrada explained.
“You need a clear plan, to know exactly which positions require strengthening, and to be ready for any scenario. There could be departures we don’t anticipate or opportunities that arise in the market that weren’t there at the start of the window.
“So, we must remain ready, agile, and flexible. But we have a clear plan. Jason Wilcox and his team are well-organised to execute it.
“I believe what we saw last season offers a strong model moving forward — a blend of experience and youth, players proven in the Premier League, and others excelling elsewhere in Europe.
“Above all, we will operate on our own terms, ensuring every decision benefits both the short and long term.”
Berrada also highlighted the importance of not allowing agents or players to manipulate the market.
Under the Glazer ownership, United had developed a reputation for overpaying — particularly through high agent fees — a practice often described as the ‘United tax’. This approach has now been abolished under INEOS.
The CEO further praised the club’s revamped transfer team for its modern approach, especially the increased reliance on data analytics to identify precise targets that meet tactical requirements.
“We must remain disciplined — it’s straightforward. We have a plan, we know our investment capacity, and we must adhere to it,” Berrada said.
“Sometimes, we may choose to make an investment that benefits not just the next two or three years but the next decade. But we must stay focused on our objectives.
“It’s crucial that we don’t let the market or agents dictate our decisions.
“When I look at our football leadership group, and the work Michael Sansoni and his data team are doing, we are in a strong position. I believe the quality of our decision-making will only improve as the team continues to develop and we keep investing in these areas.”
United are expected to add two more midfielders, a striker, and defensive reinforcements to provide Michael Carrick with the best possible resources for success next season.
