Reports suggest that Manchester United have withdrawn from a deal to sign midfielder Ederson from Atalanta. This development follows concerns regarding the player’s fitness, despite earlier indications that a transfer was close to completion.
Initially, a deal worth up to £38million had been agreed with Atalanta in early June, and personal terms were also settled with the player. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had previously stated that the deal was “100 per cent confirmed” at the beginning of June, with all documents for a €45m package deal reportedly completed.
However, Romano has since indicated that the deal is now considered “OFF” due to medical concerns. According to Romano, Manchester United informed Atalanta of their decision to pull out, with the club reportedly changing their transfer plans. Atalanta, however, maintains that Ederson is fully fit and expects him to return to their squad.
Transfer Saga Developments
The midfielder, who was part of the Brazil squad at the World Cup, had commented on his situation, stating, “I have to wait. Now I have to enjoy this moment, then we will see. Certainly, everything is almost done, but now I have to enjoy this moment. This is a wonderful experience and you have to enjoy the most.”
Despite reports from some outlets claiming the deal is off, Manchester United are reportedly denying these claims. The club is understood to still be planning to sign Ederson. Multiple reports on Friday evening also suggested that the Brazil international would not be moving to Old Trafford, citing an underlying knee issue discovered during a medical examination in the UK.
The potential transfer fee for Ederson was considered a bargain by some. Former Tottenham player Sandro suggested last month that a fee for Ederson was a good deal in the current market, especially when compared to other potential midfield targets who were significantly more expensive.
Sandro highlighted Ederson‘s physical ability, noting that he had been called up to the Brazil national team multiple times and possessed the strength to play in the Premier League. He also mentioned that several other Premier League clubs had shown interest in signing him.
Alternative Midfield Targets and Other Signings
With the uncertainty surrounding Ederson‘s transfer, Manchester United are reportedly exploring other options for strengthening their midfield. Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni is said to be of interest, with reports suggesting that Real Madrid might be open to letting go of the midfielder, who is reportedly valued at £85million.
Other players linked with a move to Old Trafford include Sander Berge, Ayyoub Bouaddi, and Felix Nmecha. Competition for these players is expected from clubs like Newcastle and Arsenal.
In other transfer news, Manchester United are reportedly close to finalising the signings of goalkeeper Karl Darlow and midfielder Andrey Santos. Darlow is expected to join on a free transfer after leaving Leeds United, providing backup to Senne Lammens. Santos is set to join from Chelsea in a deal worth an initial £48million, with potential add-ons bringing the total to £50million.
Additionally, Manchester United are reportedly interested in France midfielder Manu Kone, who has impressed at the World Cup. Roma, his current club, are reportedly open to offers in the region of £50m for the player. The club is also reportedly interested in Nottingham Forest star Neco Williams, who is under contract until 2029.
Meanwhile, Andre Onana has returned to Trabzonspor on a season-long loan, and Casemiro has departed following the expiration of his contract.
Morten Hjulmand, who was linked with United, has signed a five-year contract with Atletico Madrid, with a deal worth €45million (£38.4m) agreed with Sporting CP.
The club also has a situation to resolve with Marcus Rashford, who is expected to return to United after his loan spell at Barcelona following the World Cup.
Orlando Gill, a Paraguay international goalkeeper, has also been noted for his performances at the 2026 World Cup, placing him on the radar of multiple European clubs.
Manchester United had agreed a deal worth up to £38million with Atalanta for Ederson in early June.
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Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk
