Real Madrid has now focused its attention on the midfielder of Atalanta, Éderson, and is apparently ready to make a serious investment in strengthening its midfield. According to the news reported by the Spanish newspaper As, the Brazilian is considered one of the main options for the next season, together with Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.
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Why did Éderson catch Real Madrid's attention?
Éderson didn't land on the radar of Real Madrid by mere accident. When the Spanish giants were facing Atalanta in last December's Super Cup, their star from Brazil excelled in defeat, although Atalanta did lose to them 3-2, the stats against them read six out of eight won duels, two interceptions, and an enormous 93% passing accuracy-the number that really does speak to consistency and efficiency.
Furthermore, Éderson is quite acquainted with grand stages. The player featured in last season's Atalanta, who won the Europa League in style, as he produced a convincing win against Bayer Leverkusen in the final, with the score 3-0. There are players who prove to be the game-changers in football, and Real Madrid know just how to pick on them.
Zubimendi or Éderson: who's the priority?
With Real Sociedad's Zubimendi similarly on the wanted list, his would be far more problematic. He is a mainstay in an uncompromising La Liga outfit and has just won Euro 2024 with Spain; his transfer is complicated and will not come cheap, as Real Sociedad will strongly resist losing their key player.
Éderson is more available. He has a deal with Atalanta until 2027, but the Brazilian is reportedly clear with the Italian club that he will be allowed to leave if offers of around €50 million arrive. This flexibility, along with the steady performances from Éderson, has made him the more viable option for Real Madrid.
What can Éderson bring to Real Madrid?
Signing Éderson makes a lot of sense on many levels. First, Real Madrid needs a midfielder who can provide defensive solidity and smooth transitions to attack. With his passing accuracy and ability to read the game, Éderson fits this profile perfectly.
Equally important, Real Madrid's history with Brazilian players works in Éderson's favor. From Ronaldo to Casemiro, without mentioning Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo, the club has a very strong tradition of betting on and benefiting from Brazilian talent. Éderson could become the next piece in this successful puzzle.
Atalanta's perspective and a potential exit
Atalanta know how to cultivate talent but also how to sell it at the right moment. Éderson's contract through 2027 provides security, but the reported agreement with the club about a potential transfer suggests that a deal isn't completely off the table. A €50 million bid seems to be the right price to start negotiations.
Additionally, Atalanta has pulled off a balancing act between competing at a high European level while keeping their finances in order. Selling Éderson for a good price would enable the club to invest that money back into the team and be competitive, something which has worked for the Italians in recent seasons.