​Manchester United must decide whether to press ahead with a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson or pull the plug, according to the Daily Mail. The two clubs had agreed a transfer fee in June: £35 million upfront, plus up to £3.8 million in add-ons, to bring the Brazilian to Old Trafford. However, an initial medical check has raised concerns about the 27-year-old, casting doubt on the immediacy of any agreement. United had already conducted tests on Ederson while he was on international duty with Brazil at the World Cup, and the club subsequently insisted on additional examinations before any final decision is made. A further round of medicals is planned as part of United’s due-diligence process.
The outcome of Ederson’s medical will be crucial. If the midfielder passes the upcoming assessments, the deal could still proceed; but there is no guarantee, and the risk remains that United might decide to pursue an alternative target. The possibility exists that the club could revert to the market for a replacement if the tests do not go in Ederson’s favor or if there are lingering concerns about his fitness or suitability.
Meanwhile, Manchester United appear to be closing in on another major addition: Andrey Santos is close to joining for around £50 million after completing a medical. The Brazilian midfielder’s arrival would not be treated as a substitute for Ederson, with United maintaining an interest in both players. Sources indicate that the club could sign both Brazilians, contingent on the results of the medicals for the Atalanta star. If Ederson clears the tests, both players could be in contention to strengthen United’s midfield options ahead of a busy season.
The potential Ederson deal remains fluid. United have shown they are prepared to move swiftly if medicals support a transfer, but any final decision hinges on the results of the next round of checks. Should Ederson fail to meet United’s medical standards, the club is likely to pivot back into the market to identify another midfielder who can offer the necessary quality, depth, and Premier League experience. For now, Manchester United’s strategy involves a cautious but persistent push to add both talent and competition in the middle of the park, while ensuring that any signing aligns with the club’s long-term plan and financial framework.
In summary, United are weighing the Ederson deal against the backdrop of ongoing negotiations with Santos. The late-stage medical findings will determine whether Ederson becomes a permanent member of United’s squad or if the club pivots to other targets. As the transfer window progresses, supporters will be watching closely to see whether Manchester United can secure both Brazilians and bolster their midfield options for the upcoming campaign. If Ederson passes his medical, Manchester United could move forward with both signings; if not, the focus will shift to other potential midfield reinforcements to ensure the squad is equipped for the challenges ahead.