Manchester United's pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson has been thrown into doubt after reports emerged of a potential U-turn, but the club insists the deal is not dead. The Brazilian is undergoing further medical assessments in Manchester after an initial examination raised concerns about a knee issue.
Agreed Fee and Initial Certainty
United had looked certain to make Ederson their first signing of the summer transfer window after agreeing an initial £35 million fee with Atalanta. The deal was delayed after Ederson received a late call-up to the Brazil World Cup squad, but it was still on track to be announced in July.
Reports of a Collapse
Prior to Brazil's defeat to Norway last weekend, reports began circulating in Brazil that the deal was falling through and that Ederson would not be moving to Old Trafford. United quickly rebuked those claims, but speculation has remained.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claimed an underlying knee issue had derailed the transfer following a medical examination in the UK. Reports elsewhere agreed that Ederson's move to Old Trafford was off. It is understood an initial medical during the World Cup raised concerns about Ederson, who missed some games last season with a meniscus injury in his knee. United have not revealed the specific issue.
Current Status: Further Tests Underway
The midfielder is now undergoing more detailed assessments in Manchester. United insist the deal has not been cancelled, and if all goes well with further medical tests, the transfer will be confirmed. In the meantime, the Reds are working on other transfers as pre-season preparations continue. Andrey Santos is set to join United from Chelsea, while free agent Karl Darlow is expected to arrive to provide back-up to Senne Lammens, after leaving Leeds.
