Barcelona set to wrestle Man United for Ademola Lookman's teammate

Barcelona set to wrestle Man United for Ademola Lookman's teammate

Faruq Ibrahim 22:23 - 21.09.2024

The Blaugrana have reportedly identified a key target to fill an important position.

Barcelona have reportedly entered the race for Atalanta midfielder Ederson as they sought to clog the pivot-shaped role in front of their defence.  

The 25-year-old joined Atalanta in the summer of 2022 from fellow Italian side Salernitana only six months after joining from Brazilian club Corinthians. 

He gained mainstream attention last season after he was integral in Atalanta’s run to winning the Europa League and is now of interest to top clubs on the continent.

Barcelona eye Ederson 

Since Sergio Busquets left Barcelona in the summer of 2023 for Inter Miami, the club have scoured the market for a replacement. However, their financial situation has handicapped them. 

Atalanta defensive midfielder Ederson || Image credit: Imago
Atalanta defensive midfielder Ederson || Image credit: Imago

This summer, they were linked with a number of targets in the position but failed to sign anyone. Marc Bernal, a 17-year-old from La Masia, started the season in the position and looked an ideal fit before sustaining a season-long injury. 

The club is back evaluating the market for defensive midfielders and have now been linked with the Atalanta star. TNT Sport Brasil reports that the Blaugrana have him high on their list and could make a move for him next summer. 

However, other clubs like Manchester United, Juventus, and Newcastle have also been linked with him, and the Catalan side will have to compete with them for his signature.