Manchester United are intensifying their pursuit of Roma midfielder Manu Kone after a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson Silva fell through, according to reports from Fabrizio Romano. The Red Devils had previously agreed to an initial £35 million fee for the Brazilian, but concerns arising from medical checks led to the club reconsidering the transfer.
United had been in advanced talks with Atalanta since before the World Cup, with INEOS prepared to finalize a deal for the 27-year-old who has one year remaining on his contract. However, following further medical assessments, the club opted to halt proceedings. While United maintain a public stance of keeping the deal alive, sources indicate that the transfer is now off, with concerns reportedly centered around Ederson’s right knee.
Atalanta have formally received communication confirming the deal’s collapse and insist Ederson is fully fit, having recently featured for Brazil at the World Cup. The club are now prepared to welcome the player back into the squad. Ederson himself is reportedly disappointed, as a move to Old Trafford was considered a “dream move”, and is now planning a holiday before returning to Serie A.
With the Ederson transfer abandoned, United are prioritizing a four-man shortlist of midfield targets, with two signings expected this summer. Kone, who impressed while playing for France at the World Cup, has emerged as a leading candidate, with a potential transfer fee in the region of £50 million being discussed. The 23-year-old is reportedly eager to test himself in the Premier League, providing further incentive for INEOS to pursue the deal.
In addition to Kone, United have also made contact with Wolves regarding Joao Gomes, whose proposed move to Atletico Madrid recently fell through. Alex Scott of Bournemouth remains on the club’s radar, despite an initial enquiry being rejected, and they are also monitoring Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi. A deal for Andrey Santos, valued at £50 million, is already in place, with the Chelsea player expected to be the first midfield addition of the summer.
