Why Manchester United Pulled Out of the Ederson Deal
Brazilian midfielder Ederson's move to Manchester United is considered off, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport. Manchester United had already agreed to a long-term contract with Ederson for a transfer fee of €45 million to Atalanta, and both parties decided to finalize the official contract signing and medicals after the World Cup in North America as agreed at the end of May.
The player received a late call into the World Cup squad after the injury of Wesley and made brief substitute appearances in Brazil's final two group-stage matches. Selecao was knocked out by Norway in the pre-quarterfinal of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Medical Twist Changes Everything
Ederson underwent his first round of medical tests in New York while he was in World Cup camp with Brazil. For the second round of medicals, the player arrived in England, but Manchester United is not satisfied with the condition of the player's right knee. The player suffered a knee injury last year and underwent surgery between August and September of 2025 in Rome. After recovering from the injury, the Brazilian player played 3168 minutes for Atlanta across all competitions and was recognized as one of the best players on the team.
Atalanta Stand Firm Over Ederson's Fitness
Manchester United's medical team reportedly believes the condition of his right knee does not meet the club's long-term physical standards. This information from Manchester United shocked the officials of Atalanta; the Italian club believes that the player's physical condition is perfect after the surgery, and his performance last season is solid evidence to hold their claim.
Atalanta are prepared to welcome Ederson back into the squad after Manchester United calls off the deal and is ready to offer a new contract for the Brazilian in the team to keep the 27-year-old for the long term.
United Turn Their Attention to New Midfield Targets
According to Gazetta Italia, a recent shift in interests in Manchester United's sporting department to bring in 2004-born Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos and the latest interest in French midfielder Manu Koné could be the reason why United called off the deal despite a complete agreement reached at the end of May.
Manchester United needs more midfielders in the squad due to the departure of Casemiro and the unavailability of Manuel Ugarte due to a knee injury. Andrey Santos is set to arrive for his medicals next week, and the sporting department is assessing multiple options in the transfer window, including Manu Koné of AS Roma.