Liverpool are set to make a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson after being left impressed when scouting another star.
The Reds are heading into their first summer under the control of Arne Slot this year and could do with midfield recruits following the exit of Thiago Alcantara. Slot’s compatriot Teun Koopmeiners was previously thought to be among their targets this summer, but plans appear to have changed following a scouting mission in Italy.
According to Tuttosport, the Reds watched the Dutch midfielder in action for Atalanta. While they were there, they noticed one of his teammates, Ederson. It is reported that they were left impressed by his performance and are ‘now planning an attack’ for his signature.
Ederson, 24, is a Brazilian international. He joined Atalanta from Salernitana in July 2022. The defensive midfielder has gone on to make 89 appearances in all competitions since and helped the Italian side to the Europa League title this season.
Ederson has three years left on his contract with Atalanta. Should Liverpool make a move, it could see the Reds end their interest in Koopmeiners.
The Dutchman has been linked with a move to Anfield in the past. Serie A side Juventus are also credited with an interest and could swoop should they face little competition.
Koopmeiners’ agent has admitted that interest in his client is only natural given his form. Speaking to CalcioMercato, Bart Baving said: “Let’s see.
“Teun is having a fantastic season, he has scored many beautiful and important goals, moreover he is a footballer with a constant performance, so it would be strange if other clubs didn’t follow him.
“We know how football works. For now he is very happy to have won the Europa League with Atalanta, and he will focus on finishing Serie A well, given that Atalanta can still finish third and then on the European Championship. That’s all I can say for now.”
Meanwhile, Koopmeiners failed to rule out a summer transfer away from Atalanta. “I’m only happy to enjoy this title with the fans, I’m focused on celebrating,” he told told Sky Italia after winning the Europa League. “Next season? I don’t know. We will see.”
While the Reds are keen to add to their midfield ahead of next season, they might also be forced into the market for a new winger. Colombian winger Luis Diaz has been linked with a move to Spanish giants Barcelona.
