The 26-year-old will become United’s first signing since Michael Carrick was appointed permanent head coach last month. He is expected to officially join the club in July after signing a four-year contract at Old Trafford.
Ederson, who has three caps for Brazil, spent the last four seasons at Atalanta, where he made 180 appearances.
United view him as the ideal replacement for Casemiro, whose contract expires at the end of this month.
The club are planning a major midfield overhaul. Alongside Casemiro’s exit, Manuel Ugarte is also expected to be moved on this summer.
United are actively seeking buyers for Joshua Zirkzee and Andre Onana as well. Zirkzee has endured another disappointing season, scoring just two goals despite costing £36.5m last year.
The 25-year-old attracted interest from Serie A clubs in January and remains a candidate to be sold.
United are determined to refresh the squad significantly before the start of the new season, where they will hope to challenge for the title and UEFA Champions League