Manchester United have been hit by a dramatic twist after walking away from a deal that looked all but completed.
According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, the deal between Atalanta and Man United has collapsed despite the two clubs agreeing on a £39 million transfer last month.
The transfer appeared to be progressing smoothly before an unexpected medical issue completely changed the situation.
Recent reports claimed that an initial medical examination raised concerns over Ederson’s physical condition.
United subsequently requested that the Brazilian undergo a further round of medical tests, but the results reportedly failed to provide the reassurance they were hoping for, with the midfielder believed to be managing a knee problem.
Ederson looked destined for Old Trafford before receiving an 11th-hour call-up from Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti for the FIFA World Cup.
United had admired the 27-year-old for a long time and believed his contract situation presented the perfect opportunity to secure his signature at a bargain price.
INEOS entered the summer determined to completely rebuild the midfield, but setback after setback has complicated those ambitions.
They pulled out of the race to sign Elliot Anderson due to his staggering asking price.
Tottenham Hotspur then stole Mateus Fernandes from under United’s noses by paying West Ham United a staggering £85 million.
The one major positive is that United have reportedly reached a £50 million agreement with Chelsea to sign highly rated midfielder Andrey Santos.
The Brazilian has already completed his medical, with an official announcement expected soon.
With the Ederson move now dead, INEOS must immediately turn their attention to alternative midfield targets because the squad still requires two more additions before the transfer window closes.
Alex Scott, Tyler Adams, Carlos Baleba, Felix Nmecha and Manu Kone remain firmly on United’s shortlist.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com