Sources close to Manchester United have strongly denied that Ederson’s proposed switch to Old Trafford is off following complications during his medical. It is believed United chiefs think that the talk is external pressure to close the deal. An agreement for the 27-year-old had been in place since early June, with United agreeing to pay Atalanta a fixed fee of £35million plus £4m in potential add-ons.
The Brazil international underwent the initial stage of his medical at the World Cup last month, but United requested additional assessments before finalising his arrival. Ederson himself stated during the tournament that the transfer was ‘practically all sorted.’ However, on Friday, a bombshell report from Italy emerged claiming that United have opted against proceeding with the move and notified Atalanta of their decision. The Serie A outfit insist that Ederson is 100 per cent fit and would gladly welcome him back.
Alternative reports suggest that Ederson will undergo further examinations before United reach a final decision. The Times report that a knee injury has placed the transfer in jeopardy but do not go as far to say that the deal has collapsed.
This development comes as the Red Devils edge closer to securing Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos for £48m. United’s primary objective for the summer transfer window is to overhaul their midfield, with Chelsea willing to part with the 22-year-old Brazilian.
Ederson is understood to be desperate to join Michael Carrick’s side, who can offer him Champions League football and potentially a prominent role.
Following the departure of Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo is now the sole recognised senior central midfielder at Carrick’s disposal.
With Mainoo presently on England duty, he will be absent for the opening phase of pre-season. United have already seen several midfield targets slip through their fingers this summer, notably Elliot Anderson’s move to Manchester City and Mateus Fernandes’ switch to West Ham.
Beyond midfield reinforcements, the Red Devils are pursuing a new back-up goalkeeper with Premier League pedigree. Free agent Karl Darlow is in discussions and appears likely to join the Red Devils after leaving Leeds United.