Atalanta midfielder Ederson has addressed the sudden cancellation of his £39 million move to Manchester United. The 27-year-old expressed confusion regarding the deal's collapse following a medical examination in the United States.

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A US medical and the Brazil World Cup call-up

The collapse of the transfer was inextricably linked to Ederson's international duties with the Brazilian national team. after receiving a late call-up for the World Cup squad from coach Carlo Ancelotti, the midfielder was forced to undergo the first stage of his medical in the United States. This logistical shift was necessitated by an injury to Roma defender Wesley, which prompted the change in venue.

This situation highlights the high-stakes tension often seen in elite football, where international commitments can disrupt the carefully choreographed timing of club transfers. As the report indicates, the medical process was split between the US and a subsequent full evaluation by specialists following Brazil's exit from the tournament. this fragmented process appears to have been the catalyst for the uncertainty that ultimately ended the deal.

The £39 million pivot to Andrey Santos and Tielemans

Manchester United did not remain idle following the breakdown in negotiations with Atalanta. Instead, the club redirected its resources toward other midfield options to bolster their squad rebuild.. As reported by the source, United secured Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50 million and also pursued Youri Tielemans.

The club's recruitment strategy shifted toward several key targets to ensure the midfield rebuild remained on track. These moves included:

  • The £50 million signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea.
  • The pursuit of Youri Tielemans to provide veteran stability.
  • Ongoing interest in Brighton's Carlos Baleba before the window closes.

    • The discrepancy between Ederson's "well" tests and United's exit

    A significant gap remains between the player's perception of his health and the club's decision to walk away. Ederson stated that his initial tests "went well," yet Manchester United decided not to proceed with the agreed terms after a knee problem emerged. this leaves a critical question: what specific medical data did United's specialists see that the player did not?

    Furthermore, the source notes that while United insiders claimed the intention was to complete the transfer in early July, the sudden shift in direction created enough uncertainty for the club to pursue other targets. It remains unverified whether the club's decision was based on the projected severity of the knee injury or a strategic pivot to more immediately available talent.

    Luca Percassi’s role in Ederson’s Atalanta renewal

    Despite the disappointment of the failed move to England, Ederson has committed his future to Atalanta. The 27-year-old signed a new contract with the Italian club, citing a strong rapport with the organization and its leadership. He specifically highlighted the support of CEO Luca Percassi during the period of uncertainty.

    Ederson's decision to stay comes after a highly successful tenure in Italy, where he has made 180 appearances for the club. Having featured 41 times in all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign, the midfielder appears focused on continuing his career with the club that he says "really wanted" him.