The Brazil midfielder did not feature in Friday's 1-1 draw at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, having started 30 of Atalanta's 37 league matches this season. Palladino addressed the absence directly after the final whistle when speaking to TMW.
"It was a decision agreed with the boy because there is something happening in the transfer market," the Atalanta coach said. "The fact that such a player is being followed by such an important club should be a source of pride."
Palladino did not name the club, but the reference is clearly to Manchester United. Transfer journalist Matteo Moretto reported this week that new contacts between United and Atalanta are expected early next week as the two parties attempt to finalise the deal.
Reports in Italy on Friday suggested an agreement had already been struck at club level. Ben Jacobs of talkSPORT said verbal personal terms had been agreed with Ederson, with the 26-year-old reportedly signing up to a five-year contract at Old Trafford worth around £100,000 per week. Fabrizio Romano confirmed on 21 May that Ederson would be open to the move.
Atalanta are believed to be seeking around €50 million. Ederson's contract at the Bergamo club runs until June 2027, meaning this summer represents the last opportunity for the club to command a meaningful fee. His agent André Cury has stated publicly that the player will not sign an extension and that Atalanta will need to accept a reduced valuation to avoid losing him for nothing in twelve months.
Atletico Madrid had previously been credited with strong interest in Ederson and were understood to have received positive signals from the player's camp. However, the Spanish club's pursuit appears to have lost momentum in recent weeks.
Ederson made 41 appearances in all competitions this season, contributing three goals and two assists.
Manchester United want him alongside Sandro Tonali as part of a double midfield rebuild this summer.