Manchester United are still deliberating whether to proceed with the £35 million signing of Brazilian midfielder Ederson after his medical examination raised a concern. The 27-year-old Atalanta star had a deal worth an initial £35 million plus £3.8 million in add-ons agreed in June, but the move was put on hold after he was called up to Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad for the World Cup as a replacement for the injured defender Wesley.
Medical concern triggers uncertainty
According to the Daily Mail, Ederson underwent an initial medical check before traveling to the United States for the World Cup, which raised concerns. He is now back in England undergoing the final stages of the medical process. United must decide whether to push through the move or pull the plug and look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements.
The club is on the brink of signing another Brazilian, Andrey Santos, from Chelsea for £50 million. Santos has agreed personal terms and completed his medical, with the move close to completion. He is not considered an alternative to Ederson; both players are expected to join if Ederson passes his final medical checks.
Midfield rebuild at Old Trafford
United aim to sign up to three midfielders this summer as part of a major rebuild. They missed out on top targets Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, who joined Manchester City and Tottenham respectively. Other linked midfielders include Roma's Manu Kone and Bournemouth's Alex Scott.
The need for midfield bodies is urgent following Casemiro's departure and Manuel Ugarte's knee injury suffered while playing for Uruguay at the World Cup, which has halted his potential move. Kobbie Mainoo is currently the club's only natural central midfielder, with Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount capable of playing in the role but not specialists.
United's decision on Ederson will be crucial as they look to strengthen ahead of the new season.
