​Despite agreeing a £39 million deal with Atalanta, Manchester United have yet to complete the transfer for Ederson, and an inside source has now revealed the club’s lingering concerns. Had a late Brazil World Cup call-up not been needed to replace the injured Wesley, Ederson would likely have become a Red Devil already. United moved quickly in May to hijack Atletico Madrid’s pursuit of the 27-year-old midfielder, fending off Arsenal and other Serie A clubs in the process. Once United’s interest became clear, the São Paulo native reportedly told his advisers that his priority was United above all others—a quality INEOS has championed in its recruitment approach, as seen when they pulled out of the race for Mateus Fernandes.
The initial transfer fee was £35 million with up to £3.8 million in add-ons and was viewed by United’s hierarchy in M16 as a chance to secure a long-term target at a discount. Ederson’s name had been on United’s radar since 2023, with the recruitment team closely tracking him last season. The Brazilian agreed to a four-year contract, with an option for a further 12 months, and a club-to-club agreement was reached at the start of June. A medical was conducted, but Carlo Ancelotti’s late call to join Matheus Cunha and Casemiro in North America disrupted the proceedings.
However, a report from The Peoples Person raised questions about concerns arising during these tests, casting fresh doubt on the move. This prompted United to arrange a second medical this week, timed with Ederson’s World Cup campaign, which ended for Brazil in a loss to Norway on Sunday evening. Although this second medical was initially thought to be a routine check to assess physical condition, it is now understood to be an opportunity to perform more comprehensive examinations on the Atalanta star. Football Insider has since provided additional context, claiming their sources suggest Ederson could be dealing with a long-term knee issue. They report concerns about the Brazil international’s recent injury history, particularly a meniscus injury, fueling speculation of deeper knee problems. If the second medical reveals troubling findings, United are viewed as likely to withdraw from the deal and pursue alternatives.
Old Trafford officials remain hopeful that Ederson will pass the ensuing checks, but the deal is no longer regarded as a guaranteed outcome, despite appearing settled just a month ago. The fact that he emerged from the World Cup relatively unscathed, albeit with limited playing time, only adds to the mystery surrounding the saga. In other news, United have reportedly reached a £50 million agreement for another Brazilian midfielder, Andrey Santos. Chelsea’s acceptance of the proposal for the 22-year-old has been noted, suggesting a broader shift in United’s transfer strategy as they seek to bolster their midfield options.