Need to know
Manchester United agreed to sign Ederson from Atalanta, but there are now conflicting reports about whether the Brazil international's deal will still go through
Alex Sandro and Ederson in conversation during a Brazil match
Ederson's £38million transfer to Manchester United is in doubt(Image: Michael Zemanek/Shutterstock)
Everything you need to know about whether Manchester United will be signing Ederson or not...
Agreed deal: Manchester United previously agreed on personal terms with Atalanta midfielder Ederson and finalised a transfer fee worth up to £38million in early June. The Brazilian player was eager to make the switch to Old Trafford and publicly hinted during the World Cup that the move was nearly completed.
Injury worries: Serious doubts recently emerged after reports suggested that an underlying knee problem was detected during Ederson's initial medical examinations. Following these medical concerns regarding a previous meniscus injury, several journalists and media outlets claimed that the transfer had completely collapsed.
United's stance: Despite widespread claims of a dramatic transfer failure, United have firmly denied reports that they have pulled out of the deal. The Manchester Evening News understands that club officials do not currently consider the move to be off and have not terminated negotiations.
What's the hold up?: The transfer has experienced a significant delay as medical evaluations and internal discussions continue behind the scenes. Ederson's participation with Brazil at the World Cup also contributed to postponing the final steps required to conclude the transfer.
Carrick's plan: Signing an elite defensive midfielder remains a top priority for head coach Michael Carrick as he prepares the team for a return to the Champions League. If the move for Ederson falls through, he will join a growing list of missed midfield targets this summer that includes Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes.
Further midfield options: While there is the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Ederson's fitness, United have contingency plans to ensure they secure at least one new midfielder soon. Reports indicate that the club is actively considering Roma midfielder Manu Kone as a primary alternative option if they decide to walk away from the Atalanta star.
Santos imminent: Regardless of whether the Ederson transfer is ultimately completed, the club is successfully progressing with other major midfield reinforcements. United are on the brink of finalising a £48million (plus £2m in add-ons) agreement to sign young Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea.
Pre-season: Resolving the midfield situation is becoming urgent because senior players have already returned for pre-season training ahead of their upcoming friendly matches. Carrick wants his new signings integrated into the squad as soon as possible before the team travels for summer tour of Scandinavia.