Manchester United’s summer shopping spree just got complicated. The club agreed to pay Atalanta around $49 million total for Brazilian midfielder Ederson back in June. But now that deal is in limbo after an initial medical exam flagged something concerning.
The tests were done while Ederson was on international duty with Brazil at the World Cup. United wanted extra checks. They’re planning another round of medicals for the 27-year-old before deciding whether to finalize the transfer or walk away entirely. According to the Daily Mail, nothing is guaranteed yet.
If Ederson doesn’t pass, United will go back into the transfer market for a replacement. But it’s not like they’re standing still. They’re close to signing Andrey Santos from Chelsea for about $63 million. Santos already completed his medical. And here’s the twist: he’s not a backup plan for Ederson. United could sign both Brazilians if Ederson checks out okay on the second go-round.
The club’s midfield needs are real right now. Manuel Ugarte is out long-term with an injury, so United wants at least three midfielders this summer. Santos would be the first signing of the window. Wales goalkeeper Karl Darlow is also in the middle of his medical, so he’s probably joining too.
Manager Michael Carrick isn’t done yet. He wants a left-back and a left-sided attacker before the new season kicks off. The roster needs work in multiple spots.
So United has two Brazilians in the pipeline, one with a medical question mark and one who’s already cleared. If Ederson’s second round of tests comes back clean, they’ll have a new midfield core overnight. If not, they’ll have to scramble for another option. Either way, this is a summer where Carrick needs to hit the ground running. And he’s not taking any chances on the medical side.
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