Manchester United’s agreement to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson remains in place despite a recent social media post suggesting the deal had collapsed, according to journalist Tyrone Marshall. The Red Devils are actively pursuing midfield reinforcements this summer following the departure of Casemiro and a significant injury to Manuel Ugarte, who could be sidelined for up to a year with a knee ligament problem.
A £35 million agreement for the Brazilian international was reportedly reached weeks ago, but was paused due to Ederson’s participation in the World Cup with Brazil. The social media post sparked speculation among fans, with some expressing relief at the potential breakdown of the transfer. However, Marshall clarified that the deal is fully agreed with both Atalanta and the player, with a medical scheduled to take place after the World Cup as initially planned.
United are also exploring options at Chelsea, with Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos emerging as a potential target. Valued at £50 million by the Blues, Santos is reportedly open to a move if he is not guaranteed a regular starting role under manager Mauricio Pochettino, currently behind Moises Caicedo in the pecking order. Multiple enquiries have been made to Santos’ representatives, as reported by David Ornstein.
Further midfield options being considered by United include Felix Nmecha of Borussia Dortmund and Alex Scott of Bournemouth. The club’s existing relationship with Nmecha, a former Manchester City academy player and known to Jason Wilcox, could give them an advantage, while a deal for Scott is complicated by Bournemouth’s reluctance to sell. Reports from Germany suggest Nmecha’s fee could exceed €100 million (£86m), but United are reportedly undeterred, viewing Dortmund as a typically pragmatic selling club. The pursuit of these midfielders indicates United’s intent to significantly bolster their options in the centre of the park ahead of the new season.
The addition of Ederson would provide a dynamic presence in midfield, while Santos or Nmecha could offer further quality and depth to Erik ten Hag’s squad. These signings would address a clear need within the team and potentially improve United’s competitiveness in the Premier League.
