The Times reports that the Éderson deal, worth an initial £35m, is the first piece of business of the Carrick era following his appointment in January. The Brazilian's arrival gives United a dynamic central option but leaves further midfield work to be done.
Among the players under consideration are Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes and Brighton's Carlos Baleba — all of whom fit the profile of energetic, combative central players that Carrick favours. Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest has also been linked, though Manchester City's aggressive pursuit is understood to have cooled United's appetite given the likely fee involved.
A striker is a priority following the permanent departure of Rasmus Højlund to Napoli. Lewis Hall of Newcastle United is among the left-back options being assessed, while a right-back and potentially a winger round out the shopping list.
Carrick has been clear, however, that the path for young academy players must not be blocked entirely. Since his appointment in January, he restored Kobbie Mainoo to a central role and the midfielder responded with a strong run of form. The manager is also keen to develop Shea Lacey and other promising academy graduates as part of a wider philosophy that aligns with Manchester United's tradition of bringing through their own.
The Champions League return brings both opportunity and pressure. United played just 40 matches last season. Adding European fixtures increases that number significantly and demands greater squad depth than Carrick currently has at his disposal.