​Manchester United’s pursuit of Ederson, the Atalanta midfielder, is not completely dead, with the club yet to rule out completing a deal for the Brazilian international. Michael Carrick is back at Old Trafford, and while progress has slowed due to complications, United remain intent on reviving the marquee transfer by reworking the terms that were originally agreed. The latest update suggests that United are exploring a revised financial package that could make the transfer more palatable from a risk perspective, signaling a potential comeback rather than a definitive abandonment of the bid.
Previously, Manchester United had secured a full agreement with Atalanta for an initial fee of £35 million, plus £3.8 million in performance-related add-ons, along with a four-year contract for Ederson. After he completed his international duties at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, United’s medical team carried out thorough evaluations. The scans reportedly raised concerns about a pre-existing knee issue, specifically a meniscus injury sustained during the preceding domestic season. This prompted speculation that the deal might be in jeopardy. Yet, despite those doubts, United remain determined to bring the 27-year-old midfielder to Old Trafford to bolster their engine room, particularly as they prepare to welcome new midfield targets.
In addition to Ederson, United are also closing in on arrivals that could reshape their midfield dynamics. Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans have seen progress, with a deal for Tielemans already agreed, while Santos is another anticipated addition. Rather than abandoning their pursuit of Ederson, Manchester United’s hierarchy are actively exploring a renegotiated package that could lessen risk by shifting compensation away from a large upfront sum and toward appearance-based incentives or other performance-linked variables. The goal is to strike a deal that satisfies both parties while reducing potential downside if the knee concern proves more significant than initially thought.
On Atalanta’s side, the stance appears more relaxed. Head coach Maurizio Sarri and the club’s board remain confident in Ederson’s fitness, pointing to his continued involvement for Brazil, even if he came off the bench during the World Cup knockout stages, as evidence that the knee issue is not as severe as feared. This confidence keeps the door open for a potential sale, provided the terms align with Atalanta’s financial and sporting considerations. If Manchester United cannot finalize a restructured agreement in a timely fashion, Atalanta are prepared to welcome Ederson back to pre-season training with a lucrative new five-year contract already on the table, signaling that the player could remain in Bergamo if an agreement cannot be reached.
The situation remains fluid, with United prioritizing a method to secure Ederson without overstretching their risk exposure. The club’s current strategy involves renegotiating the deal to emphasize appearances and performance over a heavy upfront payment, while also considering the broader strategic context of their evolving midfield lineup. If a revised agreement can be sealed, Ederson could join United in the coming weeks, adding depth and dynamism to a midfield already anticipated to feature Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans. However, should talks stall, Atalanta are prepared to press forward with their plans for Ederson, including the prospect of a fresh, extended contract should he remain with the Italian club through the summer and into pre-season.