Man Utd scouts watched South American duo vs AC Milan, John Murtough could play key role in negotiations

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Manchester United are stepping up their search for new players ahead of the summer transfer window.

After a turbulent season, with Manchester United sitting in the bottom half of the Premier League, Ruben Amorim will aim to strengthen his squad during the summer.

Ineos are planning a clear-out to generate funds for Amorim’s transfer kitty, but the Reds could also see four players depart when their contracts expire at the end of the season. The experienced quartet includes Christian Eriksen, Tom Heaton, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof.

The headlines are also focusing on the players United will be trying to attract when the transfer window reopens.

United are planning a double Premier League swoop for Liam Delap and Matheus Cunha, but Amorim will plan to add more recruits than two, which is the same number of signings the Red Devils made in January following the arrivals of Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu.

That means United’s scouts will be kept busy for the remainder of the season.

Manchester United scout Atalanta duo vs AC Milan

Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Atalanta ahead of the transfer window.

The Red Devils have signed two players from the Serie A outfit since 2021, including Amad Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund.

Last week, it was reported that United are intensifying their pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson.

The Brazil international had been linked with a move to Old Trafford in the past, but a deal never materialised, therefore, he is still waiting for a move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

However, it turns out United have their eyes on one of Ederson’s teammates as well.

According to TuttoAtalanta, United sent scouts to monitor Atalanta duo Ederson and Matteo Retegui play against AC Milan on Sunday.

The report claims Atalanta would be open to offers because they are always looking to profit from their players.

Ederson scored the only goal in the game as Atalanta strengthened their hold on third place in Serie A, behind the title-chasing duo Napoli and Inter Milan.

Meanwhile, Retegui was initially linked with a move to United in February, which is encouraging as it means the scouting network is doing their homework on each potential target.

John Murtough could play key role in Manchester United transfers

It was announced earlier this month that former Manchester United football director John Murtough had joined Atalanta as director of global development.

Murtough was axed by United in April 2024 following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival as co-owner.

After joining United from Everton in 2013, along with former manager David Moyes, Murtough spent 11 years working at Old Trafford in different roles.

There is a good chance that, if Unired are interested in signing either Ederson or Retegui, they would need to negotiate well with the Italian club. It could benefit United in the long-term future that they’ve had plenty of dealings with Murtough down the years.

Ederson and Retegui stats this season

A year on from winning the Europa League, Atalanta have enjoyed a brilliant season domestically as they trail the Serie A title-chasing pack.

They wouldn’t be in that position if it wasn’t for manager Gian Piero Gasperini and his key players.

Retegui is the top scorer in Serie A with 23 goals this season. The Argentine striker has averaged 1.05 goals per 90 minutes and is set to be on the transfer wishlist for many European clubs.

In midfield, Ederson is the man who makes Atalanta tick and has drawn comparisons to Casemiro due to his style of play.

Ederson has registered 7 goal contributions despite playing in a deeper midfield role.