Manchester United’s long-running efforts to sign Ederson have been cast into serious doubt, with conflicting reports emerging over whether the proposed transfer has fallen through.

According to Sky Sport Italia and journalist Fabrizio Romano, negotiations have broken down. However, sources from within Manchester United maintain that the deal could still materialise.

The Brazilian midfielder had appeared set to make the move to Old Trafford. Reports from Sky Sports News in June indicated that United had reached an agreement with Atalanta worth £34 million, along with an additional £3.8 million in potential bonuses, and that all necessary documentation had been finalised.

Following Brazil’s group-stage victory over Haiti, Ederson himself expressed confidence about the move, stating, “Certainly, everything is almost done.”

However, the medical assessments introduced fresh complications. After Brazil’s exit from the World Cup, Manchester United requested further, more detailed medical tests, reportedly due to concerns about Ederson’s recent injury record. These examinations were completed in the past few days.

A surprising twist followed soon after. Romano reported that Manchester United had informed Atalanta of their decision to pull out of the deal, having “changed their plans.” As a result, Ederson is now expected to rejoin Maurizio Sarri’s Atalanta squad in Bergamo for pre-season training.

Atalanta, on their part, have strongly dismissed any suggestion that fitness issues derailed the move. The Serie A club insist that Ederson is in full physical condition, emphasising that he was part of Brazil’s World Cup squad, and believe that United simply reconsidered their transfer strategy. Reports suggest the Italian side are now preparing to offer the midfielder a contract extension.

Nevertheless, Manchester United have not conceded that the transfer is over. Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany has reported that the club’s internal sources deny that the deal is completely dead, insisting that an agreement could still be reached despite the current difficulties.

The uncertainty around Ederson’s situation comes as United continue their major midfield overhaul. The club have already finalised a £48 million deal for Chelsea’s Andrey Santos and are now said to be monitoring Wolves’ Joao Gomes as a potential alternative should the Ederson move fail to materialise.

Ederson’s current contract with Atalanta runs until 2027, leaving his long-term future unresolved as the summer transfer window progresses.