Manchester United's protracted pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson has hit another snag, with fresh reports indicating the Premier League side are yet to make a final decision on the €45 million (£35 million) transfer.
Despite agreeing a fee with the Serie A club on 2 June, and Ederson's late call-up to Brazil's World Cup squad causing an initial hold-up, the deal has stalled even after the Seleção's elimination. Now, the 27-year-old is waiting to learn whether United will proceed, as doubts grow over the move.
Agreed Fee and World Cup Delay
The Red Devils were keen to wrap up a deal for the Atalanta man early in the summer window, with a medical pencilled in for the start of July to allow him to join pre-season training. The £35 million fee was seen as a significant investment in a player who had impressed in Serie A and at the World Cup.
However, those plans were thrown into disarray when Ederson received a surprise call-up to Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup. United agreed to postpone the medical until after his international commitments, expecting the transfer to be finalised once Brazil's campaign ended.
Post-World Cup Uncertainty
Brazil's World Cup journey ended with a shock defeat to Norway in the round of 16, and it was anticipated that Ederson would quickly travel to Manchester to complete the formalities. But a week on, the situation remains unresolved.
Football Italia reports that Manchester United have not made a final decision on whether to go through with the transfer, describing the twist as "unexpected". The BBC has also confirmed the deal is in doubt, noting that United have not yet scheduled the medical and are now hesitating.
The reasons for the delay are unclear. United have been active in the market, and there is speculation that other targets may have emerged, or that the financial outlay is being reassessed. Atalanta, meanwhile, are reportedly growing frustrated with the lack of progress and may seek alternative solutions if the situation drags on.
What Next for Ederson and United?
Ederson, who made two substitute appearances for Brazil at the World Cup, is said to be keen on the move but is now waiting for clarity. His agents are in contact with United, but no final green light has been given.
If the deal collapses, it would be a significant setback for United's midfield rebuild, as the deep-lying playmaker was identified as a key addition to provide control and defensive cover. For now, fans must wait to see whether the club will revive the move or pivot to other options.
Quick Facts:
Fee agreed: £35m (€45m)
Player: Ederson (Atalanta/Brazil)
Delay reason: Late World Cup call-up, United indecision
Status: Transfer in doubt, United yet to finalise
Key Takeaways
- Manchester United have not finalised the €45m transfer of Ederson from Atalanta, despite agreeing a fee in early June.
- The medical was postponed due to Ederson's late World Cup call-up, but even after Brazil's exit, the deal remains unsigned.
- Reports indicate United are hesitating, with the midfielder now waiting for a final decision.
- The situation has left Atalanta frustrated, and the deal could collapse if United do not move swiftly.
- The delay throws United's midfield plans into doubt as pre-season approaches.